In a notable advancement for women’s sports, the startup basketball league Unrivaled has secured $28 million in its Series A funding round, reinforcing its position just before the commencement of its inaugural season. The impetus behind this financial success lies in the collaborative efforts of various industry leaders who have joined forces to propel the league into a strong and promising future. Alex Bazzell, the league’s president, emphasized the unparalleled foundation being laid through these alliances, hinting at a strategic vision that aims not just for immediate gains, but also for sustained growth and influence in the world of women’s basketball.
The league has already garnered substantial attention and credibility, having previously raised $7 million in a seed funding round earlier this year. With a total funding of $35 million amassed in 2024, Unrivaled is not merely a financial project but a revolutionary attempt at creating an equitable structure for its athletes. The backing from notable figures such as NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo and Olympic legend Michael Phelps highlights the potential and seriousness of the initiative. Their involvement suggests a willingness among high-profile athletes to advocate for the growth and recognition of women’s sports, an essential aspect of fostering an inclusive athletic culture.
The core of Unrivaled’s ethos involves a commitment to player ownership, promising that each athlete will have equity and a vested interest in the league’s performance. This innovative approach contrasts sharply with the traditional frameworks seen in leagues like the Women’s National Basketball Association, where financial disparities still persist. Notably, Unrivaled claims to offer the highest average salaries among women’s professional sports, a drastically different model than what rookies in the WNBA currently experience. By prioritizing fair compensation, the league aims to redefine the financial landscape for female athletes, thereby attracting top talents and enhancing the overall quality of play.
Unrivaled has also established itself as a formidable brand with its recent partnerships, including a deal with Under Armour as the league’s official uniform partner. Furthermore, the exclusive media rights agreement with Warner Bros. Discovery to broadcast games across prominent channels such as TNT and truTV, in addition to streaming services like Max, underscores a strong commitment to expanding visibility for women’s sports. These partnerships amplify the league’s reach, ultimately contributing to greater public engagement and the potential for sustained viewership.
As the countdown to the inaugural season, set to begin on January 17, approaches, Unrivaled emerges not just as a new league but as a harbinger of change within the sports industry. The combination of significant financial backing, athlete empowerment, and strategic partnerships paves the way for a transformative experience—not just for the players involved but for fans and aspiring young athletes who can aspire to be part of a more equitable sports landscape. The journey ahead appears ambitious, yet with the foundational elements already in place, Unrivaled could very well rewrite the narrative for women’s professional basketball in the years to come.