Could a new basketball league become the WNBA's unexpected safety net, or even a future rival? Recent comments from a WNBA star are fueling speculation and raising some serious questions about the league's future, especially with potential labor disputes looming. It all boils down to this: What happens if the WNBA faces a strike?
For years, WNBA players have faced a tough choice during the offseason – head overseas to play and earn a living, or stay in the US and risk falling behind. While some relish the experience of playing internationally, others prefer to remain stateside. Leagues like Unrivaled and Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball have emerged as alternatives, offering opportunities to train and compete without crossing oceans. These leagues have become havens for players from both camps, providing valuable playing time and income.
But here's where it gets controversial... These leagues aren't without their critics. Questions have been raised about potential conflicts of interest, particularly concerning Unrivaled, which was co-founded by New York Liberty's Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. The core concern? Could these leagues, especially Unrivaled, become a sustainable option for WNBA players – or at least a significant portion of them – should a strike paralyze the 2026 WNBA season?
Natasha Cloud, a prominent WNBA player, recently stoked these flames during an appearance on the "Be Great Academy Podcast." A clip circulating on social media captured her saying, "I feel like I can’t say that there is or there isn’t (a back up plan) coz I’m not 100% sure, but I know Unrivaled is prepared in so many different instances and the biggest one being that we own the space that we play in." In essence, Cloud suggested that Unrivaled possesses the resources and infrastructure to potentially sustain players during a work stoppage, even hinting at the possibility of an alternative season. "So if we wanted to stay here as the players of Unrivaled with equity in this league and with space, financial money, all that stuff, we could stay here, train, play, put on another season if need be," she continued. "So that’s a beautiful thing, and that’s why I’m so appreciative to be a part of a league like Unrivaled.”
And this is the part most people miss... Cloud's comments highlight a crucial point: player empowerment. The idea of owning a stake in a league and having control over their playing environment is incredibly appealing to many athletes. It challenges the traditional power dynamics often seen in professional sports.
Now, let's consider the potential for Unrivaled to evolve. Currently, it operates as a 3x3 basketball league. But is it conceivable that Unrivaled could pivot to the traditional 5x5 format? Absolutely. Could they potentially expand their teams to accommodate more WNBA players currently without an Unrivaled roster spot? It's not entirely out of the question. Imagine a scenario where Unrivaled transforms into a viable alternative, offering a competitive salary, equity, and control to players who might otherwise be sidelined during a strike.
Of course, this is purely speculative. We don't know exactly how such a transition would occur, the timeline involved, or the number of additional players that could be accommodated. Unrivaled's current roster boasts 54 players. The WNBA, in contrast, has roughly 150-160 players. That leaves a significant number of athletes potentially without income if the 2026 season is disrupted.
It's important to remember that the WNBA and the WNBPA (the players' union) are actively engaged in negotiations for a new Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). While the previous extension lapsed on January 9th, both sides have publicly stated their commitment to good-faith negotiations and have expressed optimism about reaching a new agreement before the 2026 season.
But Cloud's comments, however, suggest that players are actively discussing contingency plans. It's only logical that they would consider all possible scenarios, including the potential for a strike, and explore alternative options like Unrivaled. It's fair to assume that many players are hoping Unrivaled can provide some security in an uncertain future.
This brings us to a crucial question: Is it inherently problematic for WNBA players to explore alternative leagues that offer greater control and potential financial security? Some might argue it creates a conflict of interest, while others see it as a necessary step towards player empowerment. This is a point where opinions are likely to diverge. Do you think Unrivaled could become a legitimate competitor to the WNBA, or is it simply a safety net in case of a strike? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
