Liberty Star's Unrivaled comments have sparked a wave of questions and concerns within the WNBA community, particularly regarding the league's future and the players' prospects. The league, co-founded by New York Liberty's Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, has provided a unique platform for players to train and compete during the offseason without the need to travel overseas. While some players embrace the experience of living and playing in different countries, others prefer to stay closer to home. This has led to discussions about potential conflicts of interest and the league's ability to sustain players in the event of a strike before the 2026 season.
One of the key concerns was raised by Natasha Cloud during a recent podcast interview. She expressed uncertainty about a backup plan but highlighted Unrivaled's preparedness, especially in owning the playing space. Cloud suggested that Unrivaled could potentially host another season, providing a stable environment for players to train and compete. This idea has sparked curiosity about the league's adaptability and its ability to accommodate more players.
The possibility of Unrivaled transitioning from 3x3 to 5x5 basketball is a topic of speculation. While the league was initially founded as a professional 3x3 basketball league, there is a potential for expansion and change. This could involve adding more teams to accommodate additional WNBA players who are not currently on an Unrivaled roster. However, the logistics of such a transition remain unclear, including the time required and the number of players that could be added. Currently, the WNBA has approximately 150-160 players, and a delay in the 2026 season could leave many athletes without a job.
Despite the uncertainty, both the WNBA and the WNBPA have expressed a commitment to continuing negotiations in good faith. They are optimistic about reaching a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) before the 2026 season. However, Cloud's comments highlight the importance of these discussions, as players naturally consider various scenarios, including the possibility of a strike. The question remains: Can Unrivaled provide a viable solution, and how will the WNBA community respond to these evolving circumstances?
