What's Happening?
Paige Bueckers, the WNBA Rookie of the Year, has been announced as one of the first players for the 2026 season of Unrivaled, a women's professional 3-on-3 basketball league. Bueckers, who led the UConn Huskies to a national title and was selected No. 1 overall by the Dallas Wings, signed a three-year deal with Unrivaled and has invested in the league. Her impressive performance this season included setting a single-game rookie scoring record. Unrivaled, led by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, will begin its second season in January 2026 in Miami, with player announcements continuing through October.
Why It's Important?
Bueckers' involvement with Unrivaled signifies a growing interest and investment in women's sports, particularly in innovative formats like 3-on-3 basketball. Her participation and investment highlight the potential for women's sports to attract significant attention and financial backing. The success of Unrivaled's inaugural season and its expansion into a second season reflect the increasing popularity and viability of women's professional sports leagues. Bueckers' role in the league could inspire other athletes to explore similar opportunities, contributing to the growth and diversification of women's sports.
What's Next?
As Unrivaled prepares for its second season, the league will continue to announce additional players, building anticipation and excitement for the upcoming games. The involvement of high-profile athletes like Bueckers is likely to draw more fans and sponsors, enhancing the league's visibility and impact. The success of Unrivaled could pave the way for further expansion and innovation in women's sports, potentially influencing other leagues to adopt similar formats.
