Unrivaled Launches with Record Funding: A New Era for Women’s Professional Basketball
The world of women’s professional basketball is experiencing a seismic shift. With the emergence of startup league Unrivaled, which recently announced a successful Series A funding round, the landscape is poised for transformation. The league has successfully raised an impressive $28 million, propelling its total funding for 2024 to $35 million. This burst of capital is a remarkable indicator of the enthusiasm surrounding women’s sports and the potential that lies ahead.
A League Built for Players
Co-founded by WNBA luminaries Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled champions an innovative player-owned model. In a landscape where many athletes feel marginalized, Unrivaled addresses this by providing each player equity and a vested interest in its success. "Our players haven’t even taken the court yet, but the foundation we are building unites unparalleled expertise, strategic insight, and an incredible product," said Alex Bazzell, President of Unrivaled. With 36 top athletes already signed, the league is setting the stage to offer the highest average salaries across any women’s professional sports league—an exciting development that paves the way for future earnings in women’s sports.
Star Power and High Stakes
The funding round has attracted significant attention, with contributions from notable figures such as NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo and 28-time Olympic medalist Michael Phelps. Other investors include private equity investor Marc Lasry, South Carolina women’s basketball head coach Dawn Staley, and rising star JuJu Watkins. Such involvement highlights the credibility and potential that these athletes and investors see in Unrivaled.
In comparison to the WNBA, where rookie salaries for exceptional talents like Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese hover around just $70,000, Unrivaled’s commitment to fair compensation is a game-changer. As the market for women’s sports grows, this league is poised to be a leader in the movement for equality and recognition.
Top-tier Partnerships
Beyond funding, Unrivaled has secured significant partnerships that enhance its visibility and brand. The league has announced Under Armour as its official uniform partner, alongside a multiyear media rights deal with Warner Bros. Discovery. This arrangement will broadcast games on popular channels like TNT and truTV, complemented by streaming options on Max. Warner Bros. Discovery also took part in the Series A funding round, demonstrating confidence in the league’s potential.
Looking Ahead
The excitement doesn’t stop there. Unrivaled is more than just a basketball league; it symbolizes a movement toward greater visibility and pay equality in women’s sports. As leagues around the world are beginning to recognize the undying spirit and marketability of women athletes, Unrivaled stands at the forefront, ready to lead with its game-changing structure.
The inaugural season is set to kick off on January 17, 2025. With a robust foundation, elite talent, and a commitment to prioritizing players, Unrivaled is not just joining the existing ranks—it’s redefining what women’s professional basketball can and should be.
At Extreme Investor Network, we advocate for the compelling investment opportunities that come from supporting innovative ventures like Unrivaled. This league isn’t just a business; it’s part of a larger movement advocating for gender equity in sports, and it has the potential to change lives, perspectives, and industries along the way.
Stay informed on this groundbreaking league and other dynamic business opportunities in the sports industry by following Extreme Investor Network. Together, let’s champion a future where women’s sports receive the recognition and investment they truly deserve.