The landscape of professional sports is witnessing a noteworthy evolution, particularly in how funding and support are mobilized for emerging leagues. Unrivaled, a startup basketball league focusing on 3×3 women’s basketball, recently completed its Series A funding round, raising an impressive $28 million ahead of its inaugural season. This achievement is significant for a variety of reasons, reflecting not only the potential of women’s sports but also the power of community engagement and strong partnerships. With a total of $35 million raised in 2024 alone, Unrivaled is poised to challenge the norm and set new standards in the sports industry.
Acclaimed Leadership and Expertise
One distinguishing factor of Unrivaled is its leadership team, including co-founders WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. This player-driven model is not just about athletics; it brings a fresh perspective that inherently understands the struggles and ambitions of women in sports. President Alex Bazzell emphasized the collective expertise of their partners, highlighting how this coalition is geared towards creating a sustainable and successful league. By involving established sports figures like NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo and Olympic legend Michael Phelps in their funding, Unrivaled is broadening its scope of influence and credibility.
Unrivaled’s promise to provide equity and a vested interest in the league’s success marks a critical departure from traditional structures within professional sports. For years, the disparity in salaries between female and male athletes has been stark. For instance, while NBA rookies can earn millions, their female counterparts in the WNBA are often limited to base salaries just north of $70,000. Unrivaled’s model offers a unique proposition that could empower female athletes financially while simultaneously enhancing the league’s competitiveness. The promise of higher average salaries, along with equity stakes in the league itself, could redefine economic dynamics in women’s sports.
Strategic Partnerships That Amplify Reach
In its forward-thinking approach, Unrivaled has also secured significant partnerships beyond funding. A deal with Under Armour as the official uniform partner enhances brand visibility while fostering community support. Furthermore, the league’s multi-year media rights agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery to broadcast games on popular platforms like TNT, truTV, and Max establishes a robust framework for audience engagement. These strategic alliances not only extend the league’s reach but also amplify its potential for lifelong fans—a crucial aspect for any startup in the competitive sports landscape.
With its inaugural season set to kick off on January 17, Unrivaled stands on the precipice of what could be a transformative era for women’s basketball. The collective investments, partnerships, and vision shared by its leadership reflect a renewed commitment to empowering female athletes while delivering uniquely engaging content to fans. As the league seeks to capitalize on the momentum generated in women’s sports, it may well become a benchmark for others to follow. In an ecosystem where women’s sports are ascendant, Unrivaled could be the catalyst needed for broader recognition and support, paving the way for future generations of athletes.