The 2025 WNBA season concluded with the Aces securing their third championship in four years, and most players are expected to be back on the court for the 2026 season. Established in 2020, Athletes Unlimited was the pioneer in offering WNBA players a competitive platform during the offseason within the U.S., fostering a space for growth and competition. Three years later, Unrivaled, a women’s 3-on-3 basketball league founded by Nafeesa Collier and Brianna Stewart, emerged as another avenue for fans to watch top WNBA players in a dynamic new format. The inaugural season in Medley, Florida in January 2025 was a major hit, providing players with high salaries and fans with thrilling basketball.
Meanwhile, many remaining WNBA players are heading overseas to compete in EuroLeague, EuroCup, and other domestic leagues, which continue to feature top-level international talent. Among standout European teams, Italy’s Beretta Famila Schio has reinforced its position as a dominant force with familiar WNBA stars and a strong core of Italian talent. Galatasaray Chagdas Factoring has bolstered its lineup with players like Elizabeth Williams and former WNBA draft picks, promising an exciting season ahead. Turkey’s Fenerbahce, with an impressive WNBA roster including Jonquel Jones and Kayla McBride, aims to capture more titles and remains a powerhouse in European basketball.
ZVVZ USK Praha, last season’s EuroLeague champions, have refreshed their squad with young stars and WNBA talent, aiming to defend their title. Valencia Basketball Club combines Spanish veterans and upcoming players to stay competitive, while Girona, a young Spanish team, features promising players like Jushte Josite, a rising star in European basketball. Athens-based Athinaikos has built a strong squad with former WNBA players and European talent, making them a team to watch in the EuroCup. Pafmelias Avenida and CIMSA CBK Mersin, with a mix of youthful stars and seasoned veterans, are also contenders in European competitions.
Back in the U.S., the Unrivaled 3-on-3 Women’s Basketball League has announced 46 of its 48 players for Season 2, set to begin January 5, 2026, in Philadelphia. This league offers fans a faster, more individualistic game with unique rules, including an Elam ending to keep the excitement high. Meanwhile, Athletes Unlimited will start its 5-on-5 season on February 4, 2026, in Nashville, featuring 40 top players competing with a points-based scoring system that changes teams weekly, creating a fresh and dynamic experience for fans.
For WNBA followers, this is a prime opportunity to enjoy basketball year-round as EuroLeague and EuroCup games air weekly, alongside three weekly broadcasts from Unrivaled and Athletes Unlimited. The sport continues beyond the WNBA season, expanding both internationally and domestically.
Fan Take: This news highlights how women’s basketball is growing globally and diversifying its platforms, giving fans more ways to engage with their favorite players year-round. For WNBA fans, it means an exciting future with increased visibility and stronger competition, helping to elevate the sport to new heights.
