On one hand, the WNBA is touching all the heights it hardly imagined back in time. On the other hand, their biggest issue at hand is far from moving an inch. Despite a strong push from Napheesa Collier and the team, the CBA talks are still falling short from finalization.
As discussions between the WNBA and the WNBPA are still on, Collier’s husband and Unrivaled co-founder, Alex Bazzell, recently opened up. While it might seem an accumulation of absolute executive powers for Unrivaled and the WNBA for his wife, Bazzell rejected any such claims.
Unrivaled Founder Rejects WNBA Conflict Claims Amid CBA Talks
There has been a subtle outrage in the community regarding Collier’s involvement in both Unrivaled and WNBPA. She is the co-founder of the 3×3 league along with Breanna Stewart while having a board member role in the WNBA’s player association wing, i.e., WNBPA.
But there’s no “conflict of interest” as such, and Bazzell came forward to absolutely bash the claims. According to him, “Unrivaled’s ownership group has never looked at the league as a ‘competitive tool’ against the WNBA.”
“There’s so many positives from us both being in existence. I tell people all the time: The WNBA continuing to grow and thrive helps our league. … I’m hopeful they come to a CBA agreement. [They] know what goes on in the thought process of what goes on in [pro sports leagues] and where revenue comes from,” he said(Via Front Office Sports).
Asked about whether he's heard anything from this afternoon's WNBA CBA, Bazzell said:
— Colin Salao (@colincsalao) July 17, 2025
"I have heard, but I'm not privy to share." pic.twitter.com/vQkNZ2vdAR
The clarification comes amid the WNBA celebrating its All-Star Weekend in Indianapolis. Criticism directed at Collier and Stewart has intensified as they juggle responsibilities within the WNBPA while leading Unrivaled.
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Is Unrivaled’s Popularity A Threat To WNBA?
Unrival is a 3-on-3 women’s basketball league that was formed recently. The league came to fruition in January this year when six teams went against each other. Rose BC won against the Vinyl in the finals and became the first team to clinch the title.
However, the league was formed for more of an entertaining prospect rather than directly going up against the WNBA itself. And while Collier is tapping in on both sides, it’s obvious to call for a transparent approach.
Although there’s no such thing reported one both the leagues is a competitor. Until next time, the league would first try to clear off the CBA that’s been hanging low for some time.
Also Read: WNBPA Delivers Strong Message To WNBA Over CBA Dispute After Hours-Long Meeting