A New League’s $100 Million Push Puts Unexpected Pressure On The WNBA’s Most Valuable Star

As the WNBA approaches a potential lockout when its collective bargaining agreement expires on November 30, players are also facing another significant concern. In October, The Shadow League discussed a situation regarding a new women's basketball league seemingly connected to Saudi interests, initially dismissed as mere speculation. However, this emerging league now poses a serious challenge to the WNBA's status as the leading women's professional basketball organization.Project B League's co-founder, Grady Burnett, has clarified that there are no financial ties to Saudi Arabia. In an interview with Front Office Sports, he emphasized the league's intention to cultivate a diverse global investment landscape. Project B aims to compete with “Unrivaled,” which is gearing up for its sophomore season. Among its notable investors are luminaries such as Candace Parker and Novak Djokovic.In an environment where player salaries are pivotal, Project B is offering contracts exceeding $2 million annually. With WNBA athletes exploring this opportunity, the league’s dynamics are shifting dramatically.