Unrivaled Women's Basketball League Secures $340 Million Valuation with Celebrity Investment

What's Happening?

The Unrivaled 3-on-3 women's basketball league, co-founded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, has announced a valuation of $340 million following its Series B investment round led by Bessemer Venture Partners. This development comes after the league's successful inaugural season, which concluded in March. The league has attracted investments from notable figures such as Serena Williams, Trae Young, and Alex Morgan, among others. Unrivaled aims to provide WNBA players with an opportunity to play domestically during the offseason while offering the highest average salary in women's professional sports. The league's first season saw significant viewership and sold-out games, indicating growing interest in women's sports.

Why It's Important?

The substantial valuation of Unrivaled highlights the increasing momentum and interest in women's sports, particularly basketball. This investment round underscores the potential for athlete-driven models to thrive in the business world, offering players equity stakes and competitive salaries. The league's success could pave the way for more investment in women's sports, potentially leading to greater visibility and financial opportunities for female athletes. Stakeholders in the sports industry, including investors and sponsors, stand to benefit from the growing popularity and commercial viability of women's sports leagues.

What's Next?

Unrivaled is set to begin its second season in January 2026, continuing to build on its initial success. The league's strategic growth and alignment with influential partners suggest further expansion and increased visibility. As the league progresses, it may attract additional investments and partnerships, further solidifying its position in the sports industry. The continued success of Unrivaled could inspire similar initiatives in other sports, promoting gender equality and diversity in professional athletics.