Paige Bueckers Signs Contract with Unrivaled Ahead of 2025 WNBA Draft
Beginning a New Chapter
Paige Bueckers, the standout player from the University of Connecticut (UConn), is set to transition into professional basketball with a highly anticipated selection as the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft by the Dallas Wings. Reports indicate that she is signing a significant three-year contract with the up-and-coming 3-on-3 league, Unrivaled.
Contract Details and Potential Earnings
According to ESPN’s Kendra Andrews, while the specifics of Bueckers’ contract remain undisclosed, it is projected that her first year with Unrivaled will exceed her total earnings from the standard four-year rookie contract in the WNBA. Notably, lottery picks in the upcoming WNBA Draft are expected to earn $78,831 in their inaugural season, totaling $348,198 over the contract’s duration. In contrast, Bueckers’ deal with Unrivaled is estimated to be valued at a minimum of $350,000 annually.
Unrivaled’s Growing Influence
The league, co-founded by WNBA luminaries Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier in 2025, aims to provide professional female athletes an avenue to compete and earn during the WNBA offseason within the United States. After concluding its inaugural season, Unrivaled is making strides towards sustainability. It has a reported average salary for its 36 founding players of $222,222, surpassing the standard maximum contracts within the WNBA.
Future Prospects for Unrivaled
Micky Lawler, the commissioner of Unrivaled, recently shared insights on the league’s first-year performance, indicating that it “almost broke even” and expressed optimism for future revenue growth. Enhancements in seating capacity, merchandise options, and sponsorship sales are key strategies for the upcoming season. “This is sustainable,” declared Lawler, highlighting the positive reception the league has garnered.
The Impact of Bueckers
Bueckers’ arrival is likely to significantly elevate Unrivaled’s visibility and viewership. As the recent NCAA national champion with UConn, her marketability can attract larger audiences and sponsors. Her decision to engage with Unrivaled facilitates a dual opportunity: she can hone her skills in a competitive environment while also generating a substantial income.
A Shift in Women’s Professional Sports
Unrivaled is quickly becoming a benchmark for women’s professional sports leagues. Collier noted earlier this year that not only are financial elements crucial, but the league also provides high-quality amenities, including spa treatments, childcare, and gourmet catering. “This is up to our standards that we expect and deserve,” expressed Satou Sabally of the Phoenix Mercury, emphasizing the league’s commitment to high-performance conditions.
Looking Ahead
As discussions continue regarding labor negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement ahead of the 2026 WNBA season, players are drawing on experiences from Unrivaled. While increased salaries are a pivotal part of the dialogue, the Women’s National Basketball Players Association (WNBPA) aims for transformative changes beyond just financial compensation.