Napheesa Collier delivers Unrivaled message on player empowerment. [Image Source: NYT]
The upcoming 2026 WNBAseason faces an uncertain future as players and league officials approach a March 10 deadline with no finalized Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). The stalled negotiations heighten concerns over the league’s ability to deliver improved conditions for its athletes, prompting players to consider alternative opportunities.
Unrivaled League Creates New Opportunities for Players
In this context, the three-on-three basketball league Unrivaled has emerged as a compelling alternative, especially for players seeking better financial rewards during the offseason. Established in 2023 by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled completed its second season recently, with Stewart’s team, Mist BC, winning the championship by defeating Phantom BC 80-74.
Napheesa Collier, who competes for Unrivaled’s Lunar Owls, shared insights in a recent interview about the league’s rapid expansion over just two seasons. She highlighted the league’s ability to offer players significantly improved benefits compared to the WNBA, encouraging athletes to reconsider their options amid the stalled CBA talks.
Collier Highlights Equity Offer Rejected by WNBA
During a conversation with The Athletic, Collier made a revealing statement about Unrivaled’s initial discussions with the WNBA, saying,
“we did offer equity when we first, before we launched.”
This proposition was reportedly declined by the WNBA. When asked how Unrivaled’s offerings compare to those in the WNBA, Collier responded,
Image of: Napheesa Collier
“Everything we’re fighting for: salary benefits, equity in the league, like we have all these things without needing to be asked at Unrivaled.”
She added,
“Like, we want for nothing here. And not only do we meet like the minimum standards that we’re begging for in the WNBA, we exceed them. Players see here what professional life should look like. And so it’s really hard when you’ve been given that to accept less when you know what it could be like.”
Future Prospects Favor Unrivaled as a Viable Path
Collier expressed confidence in Unrivaled’s growth and potential, stressing that players no longer need to accept insufficient terms from the WNBA. She stated,
“We don’t have to just accept anything that you give us, because if you don’t give us what we’re owed, like we have other places that we can go.”
Unrivaled’s commissioner Mickey Lawler revealed a remarkable revenue increase from $27 million to $45 million over one year, signaling the league’s rapid financial growth. Additionally, Unrivaled expanded its fanbase through strategic tours outside Miami, including a record attendance of 21,490 at Xfinity Mobile Arena in Philadelphia. The Barclays Center in Brooklyn also attracted 18,261 fans during the semifinals, demonstrating growing public interest.
Implications for the WNBA and Player Negotiations
The developments surrounding Unrivaled and Napheesa Collier’s candid statements amplify pressures on the WNBA as it navigates crucial CBA talks. This new competitive landscape offers players alternatives that could reshape the traditional structure of women’s professional basketball. How the WNBA responds to these challenges will likely determine the league’s stability and future appeal to top talent. The upcoming weeks remain critical in defining both the WNBA’s negotiating position and the trajectory for athletes seeking improved opportunities.
"We have other places that we can go."
Napheesa Collier discusses the relationship between the WNBA and Unrivaled.
