Story perspectives

Basketball Stars Join New Global League Launching 2026

11/26/2025

Summary

Story summary

Sophie Cunningham and Kelsey Mitchell, professional basketball players, have signed with Project B.
Project B is a global women’s basketball league launching in late 2026.
The league will feature six teams and 66 players, with tournaments across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Grady Burnett, Project B co-founder, says the league will emphasize player storytelling and digital engagement to drive offseason growth because it will not compete directly with the WNBA.

History

Historical Context

The Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA) was founded on April 24, 1996, as a professional league to promote women's basketball in the U.S., beginning play in 1997 with eight teams. By 2025, the league expanded to 13 teams and introduced the Golden State Valkyries. The upcoming Project B in 2026, featuring six teams globally, signifies the ongoing growth and international interest in women's sports.

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Story summary

Sophie Cunningham and Kelsey Mitchell, professional basketball players, have signed with Project B.
Project B is a global women’s basketball league launching in late 2026.
The league will feature six teams and 66 players, with tournaments across Asia, Europe, and the Americas.
Grady Burnett, Project B co-founder, says the league will emphasize player storytelling and digital engagement to drive offseason growth because it will not compete directly with the WNBA.

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