What's Happening?
Serena Williams has expanded her investment portfolio by participating in the Series B investment round for Unrivaled, a women's 3-on-3 basketball league. The league, now valued at $340 million, aims to provide WNBA players with offseason opportunities without the need to play abroad. Williams, through her venture capital firm Serena Ventures, joins other notable investors including Alex Morgan and Billie Jean King. The league claims to offer the highest average salary in professional women's sports history and is set to begin its second season in January 2026.
Why It's Important?
This investment highlights the growing interest and financial backing in women's sports, potentially leading to increased visibility and opportunities for female athletes. By offering competitive salaries, Unrivaled could attract top talent and set a precedent for other women's leagues. The involvement of high-profile investors like Serena Williams and Alex Morgan underscores the potential for women's sports to become a lucrative market, encouraging further investment and development in the sector.
What's Next?
Unrivaled's second season is scheduled to start in January 2026, which may see increased media coverage and fan engagement due to the involvement of prominent sports figures. The league's strategic growth, supported by investors, could lead to expansion and more opportunities for players. As the league develops, it may influence other sports organizations to enhance their offerings for female athletes.
