Sabrina Ionescu has officially joined Unrivaled, the groundbreaking 3-on-3 women’s basketball league founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. The league announced Ionescu as their final wildcard addition, completing the roster for the inaugural season set to tip off on January 17 in Miami.
Ionescu will represent the Phantom Basketball Club, joining an elite group of athletes as the league prepares to redefine the women’s basketball landscape.
A Historic Signing
According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, Ionescu’s deal with Unrivaled is described as “unprecedented and historic.” The contract reportedly includes a salary that places the New York Liberty guard in “a category of her own,” solidifying her as one of the most prominent figures in women’s sports.
Her addition marks the 36th and final player in the league’s inaugural roster, capping off an impressive player pool designed to showcase top-tier talent during the WNBA offseason.
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Overcoming Injury
Ionescu’s signing comes just weeks after undergoing surgery to repair the UCL in her shooting hand, an injury she endured while leading the Liberty through the 2024 WNBA Finals. Despite the setback, Ionescu delivered one of the most memorable moments of her career, hitting a jaw-dropping game-winning three-pointer in Game 3 to secure her first WNBA championship.
Her resilience and skill make her a natural fit for Unrivaled, a league aiming to push the boundaries of competitive women’s basketball.
The Vision Behind Unrivaled
Founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, Unrivaled seeks to provide a platform for WNBA players to compete at a high level during the offseason. The league’s innovative 3-on-3 format is designed to highlight individual talent while fostering a fast-paced and dynamic style of play.
With the inaugural season kicking off in Miami, Unrivaled promises to bring fresh energy and excitement to women’s basketball, attracting fans and sponsors eager to support the sport’s continued growth.
A Milestone Moment for Women’s Basketball
Ionescu’s involvement adds star power and credibility to Unrivaled, further elevating its profile ahead of the inaugural season. Her decision to join the league underscores the growing opportunities and recognition for women’s basketball, as players increasingly secure high-profile contracts and partnerships.
As Unrivaled prepares for its debut, all eyes will be on Ionescu and her fellow players as they showcase their skills in a groundbreaking new format. For Ionescu, it’s another opportunity to leave her mark on the sport while continuing to build on an already storied career.
The stage is set for Unrivaled to make history, and with Sabrina Ionescu in the mix, the league is poised to deliver an unforgettable season.
