The buzz around the nascent Unrivaled 3-on-3 basketball league just intensified, as organizers revealed their roster on Tuesday, leaving two crucial spots dangling in anticipation of decisions from WNBA heavyweights Caitlin Clark and A'ja Wilson. Indeed, the league's founders seem undeterred by the wait, pushing forward with announcements that include stars like Kelsey Plum, yet holding firm for these potential game-changers. It's a bold move, especially after setting an internal deadline that slipped past October 1st, all while whispers of ongoing talks with "big names" fill the air.
Caitlin Clark, the Indiana Fever's sensational guard and 2024 Rookie of the Year, has been sidelined since mid-July by a nagging right groin injury that ultimately ended her 2025 season after just 13 games. She appeared in only those contests, averaging numbers that still turned heads despite the setback. Meanwhile, A'ja Wilson, the Las Vegas Aces' dominant center and a three-time MVP, wrapped another stellar year, though the Aces fell short of playoff glory. Their potential involvement in Unrivaled—set to tip off soon in a fresh format—could redefine off-season play, drawing massive attention to the venture backed by notable investors.
However, the excitement is tempered by fresh controversy. Wilson didn't mince words this week, expressing disgust over alleged remarks from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert that seemingly downplayed Clark's impact on the league's surge in popularity. "It's disgusting," Wilson said, highlighting a rift that underscores ongoing debates about race, fame, and credit in women's basketball. Moreover, this comes as both players navigate their post-season recoveries and endorsements, with Clark's absence from the Fever's playoff push—a surprising first-round upset without her—still fresh in fans' minds.
Indeed, the league's growth owes much to talents like these, yet such internal frictions raise questions about unity moving forward. As Unrivaled awaits their calls, one wonders how this saga might reshape alliances in women's hoops.