The comments made by the Liberty star have ignited a fresh wave of questions and concerns regarding the WNBA. Both Unrivaled and Athletes Unlimited Pro Basketball have emerged as platforms that allow WNBA players to train and compete during the offseason without having to travel abroad. While numerous players appreciate the opportunity to experience life and sports in various countries, others prefer staying closer to home. This creates a unique intersection where players from both preferences can find a place to play.
However, these leagues also bring forth significant questions about potential conflicts of interest. Notably, Unrivaled was co-founded by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier of the New York Liberty, which raises eyebrows about fairness and transparency. Additionally, there is growing speculation about whether these leagues could truly support WNBA players—at least some of them—if a strike were to occur before the 2026 season.
In a recent episode of the "Be Great Academy Podcast," Natasha Cloud added fuel to these discussions. In a clip that has circulated on social media, she expressed uncertainty about whether a backup plan exists, stating, "I feel like I can’t say that there is or there isn’t (a backup plan) coz I’m not 100% sure, but I know Unrivaled is prepared in so many different instances and the biggest one being that we own the space that we play in." This statement indicates a level of confidence in Unrivaled’s infrastructure.
Cloud elaborated further, emphasizing, "So if we wanted to stay here as the players of Unrivaled with equity in this league and with space, financial money, all that stuff, we could stay here, train, play, put on another season if need be. So that’s a beautiful thing, and that’s why I’m so appreciative to be a part of a league like Unrivaled.” Her remarks suggest that Unrivaled might be more than just a temporary solution; it could potentially evolve into a viable long-term option for players.
Interestingly, while Unrivaled initially focused on 3x3 basketball, there’s speculation it could pivot toward 5x5 basketball in the future. The idea of expanding its roster to include more WNBA players who are currently not affiliated with Unrivaled is intriguing. However, it’s essential to note that this is merely conjecture at this stage; the practicalities of such a transition remain undefined. Currently, the league has a roster of 54 players, while the WNBA consists of approximately 150 to 160 players. This disparity highlights a concerning reality: many athletes could still find themselves without a team if the 2026 WNBA season faces delays.
On a more optimistic note, the WNBA and the WNBPA are engaged in negotiations aimed at reaching an agreement. Despite the recent expiration of the latest Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA), which occurred on January 9, both parties have expressed their commitment to negotiating in good faith. There is a shared sense of hope that a new CBA will be finalized before the start of the 2026 season. However, Cloud's comments imply that conversations among players regarding potential strike scenarios are already taking place, and many are understandably looking to Unrivaled for clarity and direction amidst the uncertainty.
