Unrivaled Basketball League Announces Philadelphia as First 'Tour Stop' for 2026

What's Happening?

The Unrivaled 3-on-3 women's basketball league, led by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, has announced that it will host a pair of games at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia during its second season. This event, scheduled for January 30, 2026, marks the league's first official 'tour stop' and the first professional women's basketball games in Philadelphia since 1998. The league, which aims to elevate the women's basketball ecosystem, will feature four clubs competing in back-to-back matchups. The full schedule and specific teams participating will be revealed in November. Unrivaled's home base remains in Miami, but the league is expanding from six to eight teams and has increased its valuation to $340 million. Notable players such as Brittney Griner, Alyssa Thomas, and newcomers like Paige Bueckers and Kelsey Plum are set to participate.

Why It's Important?

This development is significant as it highlights the growing interest and investment in women's sports, particularly basketball. By choosing Philadelphia, a city with a rich basketball history, as its first tour stop, Unrivaled is tapping into a passionate fan base and setting the stage for increased visibility and support for women's basketball. The league's expansion and increased valuation indicate a positive trend in the sports industry, where women's leagues are gaining more recognition and financial backing. This move could potentially pave the way for more cities to host similar events, further promoting women's sports and providing more opportunities for female athletes.

What's Next?

As Unrivaled prepares for its second season, the league is expected to finalize its roster, with two spots still open. Speculation surrounds potential players like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese, who have yet to commit. The league's general manager, Clare Duwelius, emphasized the importance of allowing athletes time to make decisions, suggesting announcements will be made soon. The upcoming games in Philadelphia are anticipated to generate excitement and engagement, especially as the city looks forward to welcoming a new WNBA team in 2030. The success of this tour stop could influence future decisions regarding the league's expansion and scheduling.