In a groundbreaking move that bridges the worlds of tennis and basketball, 2023 U.S. Open champion Coco Gauff signaled her investment in Unrivaled, the 3×3 basketball league founded by WNBA superstars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart. She added that she was excited to “uplift” female athletes in “one of her favourite sports.”
The Rise of Unrivaled
Unrivaled was launched by Collier and Stewart with a mission to provide WNBA players with opportunities to stay competitive and visible during the offseason. It offers a platform for players to showcase their skills in the fast-paced, dynamic format of 3×3 basketball, which debuted as an Olympic sport at the Tokyo 2020 Games.
Since its inception, Unrivaled has drawn attention for its fresh approach to the game, blending traditional basketball excitement with the unique, high-energy vibe of 3×3 play. By securing influential backers like Gauff, the league solidifies its standing as a forward-thinking endeavor that challenges the norms of professional sports.
Gauff is the most recent prominent investor in the league, and it will feature six teams of five players competing in 3-on-3 matches in Miami. Set to commence later this month, the league has secured $35 million in funding thus far, guaranteeing players a minimum annual salary in the six figures and providing the highest average salary among professional women’s team sports in the U.S.
Gauff: A Champion of Women’s Empowerment
At 20 years old, Coco Gauff has already established herself as a trailblazer on and off the tennis court. Her investment in Unrivaled underscores her dedication to empowering women and promoting equity in sports.
“This is about more than basketball,” Gauff stated in a recent interview. “It’s about creating opportunities for women to excel, inspire, and lead. I’m thrilled to be part of this journey.”
Gauff’s involvement brings significant visibility to Unrivaled, thanks to her global fanbase and influential social media presence. Her endorsement lends credibility to the league and aligns with her broader efforts to advocate for gender equality and diversity in sports.
Implications for Women’s Sports
Gauff’s involvement demonstrates the potential for cross-sport collaborations to drive investment in women’s athletics. Her support may encourage other high-profile athletes and brands to back Unrivaled and similar initiatives.
As a newer format, 3×3 basketball offers a fresh, fast-paced alternative to traditional games. Unrivaled’s innovative approach could attract younger audiences and expand basketball’s fanbase globally. By showcasing the talents of WNBA players year-round, Unrivaled helps address the visibility gap that women’s sports often face. With a star like Gauff involved, the league’s reach will likely extend far beyond basketball fans.
Unrivaled Future for Women’s Basketball
Gauff’s investment is a pivotal moment for Unrivaled, signaling that the league is not just a short-term experiment but a sustainable venture with long-term ambitions.
As the league prepares for its next season, the involvement of high-profile figures like Gauff could attract further sponsorships, media deals, and global attention. This partnership marks a significant step forward for women’s sports and underscores the power of collaboration in breaking barriers and building new legacies.
Main Photo Credit: Susan Mullane – USA TODAY Sports
