Breaking News: Bueckers Secures Thrilling 3-Year Unrivaled Deal—What It Means for Her Career

Paige Bueckers is making big moves. The standout guard, likely the No. 1 overall pick in the upcoming WNBA draft, is signing a three-year contract with the 3-on-3 league Unrivaled, according to sources at ESPN. This deal means she’ll earn more during her first season with Unrivaled than she would over four years in the WNBA as a rookie. If she is indeed the top pick, her first-year salary will be around $78,831, based on the WNBA’s collective bargaining agreement.

Last year, Bueckers signed a name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreement with Unrivaled, gaining equity in the league. Although she didn’t play in the inaugural season, she wrapped up a successful college career at UConn, capped off with a national title win. During her final season, Bueckers averaged 19.9 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 4.9 assists per game, shooting an impressive 53.4% overall, including 41.9% from beyond the arc.

Unrivaled, launched in 2023 by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, just completed its first season, raking in over $27 million—more than double what investors expected. The league is now focused on signing top-tier talent and providing substantial resources rather than expansion.

Bueckers’ signing is crucial for Unrivaled. The league aims to attract more elite players, including Caitlin Clark and A’ja Wilson, to enhance its appeal and sustainability. By bringing in star players, Unrivaled hopes to create a reliable off-season option for WNBA athletes, a need that has grown in recent years.

Experts note that this trend reflects a larger shift in women’s sports. Recent surveys indicate that the popularity and viewership of women’s sports are on the rise. For instance, a report from ESPN shows that women’s sports viewership increased by 300% in the last year alone. This growing audience creates more opportunities for leagues like Unrivaled to thrive.

Fans on social media are buzzing about Bueckers’ move, with many expressing excitement over her potential impact on the league. The buzz around her deals demonstrates a cultural shift in how female athletes are valued and the financial opportunities available to them.

As women’s sports continue to grow, partnerships like Bueckers’ with Unrivaled signal promising changes for female athletes. They aren’t just players; they are also becoming influencers and business partners in their own right, shaping the future of sports. You can read more about women in sports and their evolving roles on CBS Sports.

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