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WNBA: Why A'ja Wilson Refused To Join Unrivaled League 2 Sep 29, 2024; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) dribbles the ball against the New York Liberty during game one of the 2024 WNBA Semi-finals at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

WNBA: Why A’ja Wilson Refused To Join Unrivaled League

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics
By Angelo Guinhawa | Last updated Nov 22, 2024 6:04 AM ET

WNBA star A’ja Wilson , recently declined an enticing offer to join the new 3-on-3 league, Unrivaled, prioritizing her need for rest and offseason recovery. Despite the substantial financial incentives, the Las Vegas Aces’ decision reflects her commitment to maintaining her performance and well-being for the upcoming season.

The upcoming Unrivaled league, a new 3-on-3 women’s basketball competition, is generating excitement with a lineup of impressive talent, though Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark will not be among the players participating. Co-founded by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, the league aims to enhance players’ earnings during the WNBA off-season. With its inaugural games set next year, fans can look forward to thrilling matchups featuring some of the biggest names in women’s basketball.

WNBA: Why A'ja Wilson Refused To Join Unrivaled League 1 Sep 29, 2024; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) shoots a layup against the New York Liberty during game one of the 2024 WNBA Semi-finals at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Gregory Fisher-Imagn Images

Among the stars confirmed to play are reigning rebounding leader Angel Reese, second-leading scorer Arike Ogunbowale, and established players like Aliyah Boston, Jewell Loyd, and Brittney Griner. This diverse roster highlights the league’s commitment to showcasing elite talent while offering a platform for players to compete in a new format. The unique 3-on-3 setup promises to deliver fast-paced action and exhilarating gameplay.

Unrivaled will feature six teams composed of 34 players, with additional wild-card spots available for two teams. The selection process for team rosters involved coaches picking players from various positional pods, ensuring a balanced and competitive league. This innovative approach not only adds intrigue to the team dynamics but also allows for strategic matchups throughout the season.

The Reason Why WNBA Star A’ja Wilson Didn’t Join Unrivaled League

Unlike Chicago Sky forward Angel Reese, Wilson didn’t jump the Unrivaled bandwagon. The Aces star revealed her reason, as seen in an article written by Tom Friend for Sports Business Journal.

“A’ja just, honestly, she likes to rest her body, she doesn’t want to play year-round,” said the source close to Wilson. “And she’s an outlier of where, just on pure basketball, it’s a 3-on-3 league, it’s not a 5-on-5 league. So that’s one thing. But she’s really busy in the offseason. It just was not a great fit for her.

The league is particularly notable for its financial backing, boasting the highest average salary in women’s professional sports history. Investors include prominent figures like Megan Rapinoe and Carmelo Anthony, reflecting a broader movement to elevate women’s sports and provide athletes with sustainable opportunities.

WNBA: Why A'ja Wilson Refused To Join Unrivaled League 3 Oct 1, 2024; Brooklyn, New York, USA; Las Vegas Aces center A’ja Wilson (22) drives to the basket in the third quarter against the New York Liberty during game two of the 2024 WNBA Semi-finals at Barclays Center. Mandatory Credit: Wendell Cruz-Imagn Images

As the league prepares for its debut, the excitement surrounding Unrivaled is palpable. With its talented lineup and innovative format, it promises to be a significant addition to the women’s basketball landscape, offering fans a chance to witness the sport in a fresh and dynamic way.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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