Full Breakdown
Project B: A New Era for Women's Basketball
11/26/2025, 2:23:12 PM
Overview of Project B's Launch
Project B is a new global women's basketball league set to launch in late 2026, aiming to provide a platform for elite female athletes and enhance player compensation. The league will feature six teams, each consisting of 11 players, and will operate on a traveling circuit across Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Notably, the league has already secured commitments from several prominent WNBA players, including Sophie Cunningham and Kelsey Mitchell from the Indiana Fever, who recently joined the roster.
Key Players and Their Commitments
As of now, Project B has announced nine players, including notable names such as Nneka Ogwumike, Alyssa Thomas, Jonquel Jones, Jewell Loyd, Kamilla Cardoso, and Janelle Salaun. Cunningham and Mitchell's involvement marks a significant step in the league's ambition to attract top talent. Both players expressed enthusiasm about being part of what they describe as a "global movement" for women's basketball, with Cunningham stating, "Our game is exploding in popularity, and I’m all in on carrying that momentum forward in any way I can."
Funding and Ownership Structure
Project B is co-founded by Grady Burnett, a former Facebook executive, and Geoff Prentice, a Skype co-founder. The league's funding has raised questions, particularly regarding its ties to Saudi Arabian investments. However, Burnett clarified that the league does not receive direct funding from Saudi Arabia, despite working with Sela, a Saudi events company, for organizing events. The league promises competitive salaries starting at $2 million annually, along with equity stakes for its players, a model that aims to empower athletes and reshape their roles within the sport.
Competition and Market Positioning
The league is designed to operate during the WNBA offseason, which means it will not directly compete with the WNBA but will face competition from the Unrivaled three-on-three league. This strategic timing allows players to participate in both leagues without conflicts. The founders believe that Project B's asset-light model, which emphasizes player ownership and global engagement, could serve as a blueprint for other sports.
Criticism and Concerns
Despite the excitement surrounding Project B, there are concerns about its sustainability and the potential impact on existing leagues. Critics have pointed out that the league's ambitious plans may face challenges in execution, particularly in maintaining player interest and engagement across multiple continents. Additionally, the ongoing negotiations for a collective bargaining agreement (CBA) in the WNBA have created uncertainty, prompting some players to explore alternatives like Project B.
Future Prospects
Project B aims to host tournaments in various international locations, with plans for three events in Asia, three in Europe, and one in the Americas. The league's founders are optimistic about its potential to attract a global fanbase and elevate women's basketball to new heights. As the league prepares for its inaugural season, it will continue to announce additional players and refine its operational strategies.
Verbatim Quotes
- “Project B represents the next evolution of women’s basketball. I’m honored to be part of this global movement and excited to compete on a stage built for the future of the game.” — Kelsey Mitchell, Indiana Fever Guard
- “ She was then shown in an Instagram video saying, "I am so thrilled for [Project B], it is giving women's basketball a platform that is much deserving; not only here in the United States, but across the world.” — Sophie Cunningham, Indiana Fever Guard
In summary, Project B is poised to redefine the landscape of women's basketball by prioritizing player compensation and global engagement, while also navigating the complexities of competing leagues and funding sources.
