Caitlin Clark is one of the standout names missing from the roster of Unrivaled’s first season, which kicks off on Jan. 17. Although the 3-on-3 league founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier boasts star power, some prominent players are notably absent.
Stewart and Collier created Unrivaled as an alternative for players to stay in the U.S. rather than play overseas. With significant financial backing from investors like Warner Bros. Discovery and Giannis Antetokounmpo, the league offers competitive salaries.
Here are five WNBA stars who won’t be participating in Unrivaled’s inaugural season:
Five WNBA stars who won’t play in the inaugural season of Unrivaled
#1 Caitlin Clark | Guard | Indiana Fever
Caitlin Clark declined an offer from Unrivaled despite being a sought-after player. The Indiana Fever confirmed she is taking a well-deserved offseason break after playing continuously from college to her rookie WNBA season.
#2 A’ja Wilson | Forward | Las Vegas Aces
A’ja Wilson, fresh off winning her third league MVP, also turned down an offer from Unrivaled. She prefers the traditional 5-on-5 format and is taking a break from full-year commitments.
#3 Nneka Ogwumike | Forward | Seattle Storm
Nneka Ogwumike, a top free agent, chose not to join Unrivaled. At 34, she opted for rest over risking injuries after a busy career playing in various international leagues.
#4 Jonquel Jones | Center | New York Liberty
Jonquel Jones, fresh from a championship win with the New York Liberty, opted to play overseas in the Chinese Basketball Association instead of joining Unrivaled.
#5 Kelsey Plum | Guard | Las Vegas Aces
Kelsey Plum decided to take a break from basketball to focus on personal matters after withdrawing from Unrivaled. She remains an unrestricted free agent and will need to stay healthy for future negotiations.
Edited by Bhargav
