Unrivaled, the newly-formed women’s 3-on-3 basketball league, has secured a major broadcast partner, according to Sportico. The league, founded by WNBA superstars Breanna Stewart of the New York Liberty and Napheesa Collier of the Minnesota Lynx, has struck a deal with TNT to air its games. This partnership represents a significant step forward for the league, which will officially launch this winter in Miami.
With an impressive roster of 30 elite players, Unrivaled is set to feature some of the biggest names in women’s basketball, including Kelsey Plum, Angel Reese, Arike Ogunbowale, and even college sensation Paige Bueckers from UConn.
This star-studded lineup will ensure high-quality competition and generate excitement among fans as the league kicks off during the WNBA offseason.
The timing of Unrivaled’s debut couldn’t be better. Women’s basketball is experiencing a surge in popularity, with increased media attention and fan engagement across multiple platforms. Meanwhile, 3-on-3 basketball has become a rapidly growing format, gaining mainstream traction after its inclusion in the Olympics and numerous global competitions.
RELATED: Breanna Stewart of the Liberty Makes Bold Statement on Upcoming WNBA Free Agency Plans
The league’s unique format, combined with its player-driven ownership structure, promises to create a fresh and dynamic experience for both players and fans.
One of the most compelling aspects of Unrivaled is that it will offer the highest salaries in women’s team sports, giving female athletes another opportunity to earn significant income while staying active during the WNBA’s offseason.
This player-first approach, where athletes not only compete but also hold ownership stakes, is poised to empower the players while raising the profile of women’s sports.
TNT’s involvement goes beyond broadcasting games. According to reports, the network will also invest in the league’s development, signaling a long-term commitment to the success of Unrivaled.
This is particularly noteworthy as TNT is set to lose its NBA broadcasting rights after the upcoming season, leaving a potential void in its sports programming lineup. Though Unrivaled will only run for eight weeks, it could help fill some of that gap, offering a fresh take on basketball content.
The partnership with TNT could also introduce an additional layer of intrigue, as speculation grows about whether the network’s beloved “Inside the NBA” crew will play a role in promoting the new league. With personalities like Shaquille O’Neal, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, and Ernie Johnson, “Inside the NBA” is regarded as the most entertaining and influential sports studio show in history.
Their involvement, even if minimal, could add significant visibility and excitement to Unrivaled, making the league’s games feel like must-watch events.
As Unrivaled prepares for its debut, it stands at the intersection of a cultural moment where women’s basketball is gaining widespread recognition and 3-on-3 basketball is evolving into a mainstream format.
With the backing of influential players and a major network like TNT, the league has the potential to redefine women’s basketball and elevate it to new heights. All eyes will be on Miami this winter as Unrivaled launches and showcases the next chapter in the evolution of women’s sports.
Leave a Reply