Unrivaled, a new 3×3 women’s basketball league, has secured a major boost with tennis sensation Coco Gauff joining as an investor. The 20-year-old U.S. Open champion’s investment, announced on January 6, 2025, signals a strong commitment to advancing women’s sports and pay equality. Gauff’s involvement reflects her passion for basketball, one of her favorite sports, and her vision of elevating women athletes.
Gauff’s Investment Helps Propel Unrivaled to New Heights
In a statement, Gauff expressed her excitement about supporting the league. “Basketball is one of my favorite sports, and the chance to support a league that’s redefining the game is exciting,” she said. The tennis star, known for her on-court success, is now focusing on making a significant impact off the court as well. Her investment will help propel Unrivaled to the next level, where the league will aim to revolutionize the world of women’s basketball.
As Gauff joins Unrivaled, the league plans to launch its inaugural season later this month. The league, founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, aims to offer women basketball players an opportunity for more income during the off-season while ensuring they are compensated fairly for their talent.
League’s Vision for Pay Equality in Women’s Sports
One of the core values of Unrivaled is pay equality. Co-founder Napheesa Collier emphasized the importance of matching pay with talent, stating, “Women need to be paid accordingly.” Collier and Stewart believe it’s essential for female athletes to be treated as professionals, with salaries reflecting their abilities and the hard work they put into their sport. Unrivaled aims to ensure that women in basketball are not only playing at the highest level but also being paid as such.
The league will feature six teams, each with five players, and will host its games in Miami. Players like Angel Reese, Arike Ogunbowale, and Flau’jae Johnson are expected to take part in the upcoming season, adding star power to the league’s debut. The presence of these high-profile athletes underscores the league’s commitment to attracting top talent and offering them the platform they deserve.
Major Celebrity Backing and Significant Investment
Unrivaled has already raised significant funds to support its mission. In December 2024, the league secured $28 million in Series A funding, with notable investors like NBA champion Giannis Antetokounmpo, South Carolina women’s basketball coach Dawn Staley, and Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps. Other celebrity investors, including NBA star Carmelo Anthony and Hollywood couple Ashton Kutcher and Mila Kunis, have also contributed an additional $7 million to the league.
With such strong backing and a powerful vision for the future, Unrivaled is set to disrupt the women’s basketball landscape. The league’s first games will kick off on January 17, 2025, followed by an exciting one-on-one tournament mid-season. These events will surely attract significant attention as Unrivaled continues to make strides in the world of women’s sports.
