Unrivaled is a nice offseason option for players, but it is no WNBA replacement. That’s because the fledgling 3×3 league lacks the history, established platform, geographic team identities and other factors that the WNBA provides.
In fact, low early ratings easily argue Unrivaled is dependent on buzz around the WNBA to carry over interest, something that is lacking this go around due to CBA negotiations putting league business on pause.
So, it was slightly concerning to hear New York Liberty star Natasha Cloud float the idea of continuing Unrivaled as a backup in the event of a WNBA lockout.
Cloud sat down with the Be Great Academy Podcast and was asked what would happen in the event the 2026 WNBA season did not take place as scheduled.
“I know Unrivaled is prepared in so many different instances and the biggest one being that we own the space that we play in. So if we wanted to stay here year round as the players of Unrivaled, with equity in this league…we could stay here, train, play, put on another season if need be,” Cloud stated.
Tasha Cloud sits down with the Be Great Academy Podcast to address how players could navigate a potential WNBA lockout.
“We own the space we play in. If we wanted to stay here year-round as Unrivaled players with equity in this league, we can stay, train, play, and put on… pic.twitter.com/yaFyjyg3cK— haus hoops | wbb (@haushoops) January 16, 2026
Cloud then went on to cite the new Project B international basketball league scheduled to start in the fall to further her point.
“I’m so happy these entities are coming out here because now W[NBA] you have to move because there are challengers to you. You are not the sole entity of the best basketball players in the entire world anymore. There are other leagues that want to compete with you, and are you going to stand on business or are you not?”
WNBA players should not overestimate leverage of other leagues
