In basketball, time is a relentless defender. It steals moments, forces clutch plays, and determines champions. Unrivaled, the innovative 3×3 league spearheaded by Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, is embracing the concept of time in its purest form. But in this league, time doesn’t just dictate the game; it defines its very identity. As the clock ticks toward the January 17 tipoff, fans are buzzing with anticipation—not only about the league’s star-studded roster but about its uniquely designed structure. So, how long is an Unrivaled game? The answer might surprise you.

The games, played on a 70-by-50-foot court—three-fourths the length of a standard WNBA floor—will feature four seven-minute quarters. That’s a total of just 28 minutes of playing time, making these contests shorter and more intense than traditional formats. Collier has hinted at what fans can expect, describing the game as “normal basketball with more spacing.” This condensed duration is designed to keep games high-octane, leaving no room for lethargy or prolonged possession play.

What makes Unrivaled even more unique is its ability to compress the essence of basketball into these 28 minutes. The league’s structure emphasizes spacing and fluidity, with each moment on the clock carrying heightened significance. The format aligns seamlessly with the league’s goals: to create a dynamic and engaging product that stands out in the crowded basketball ecosystem.

The shortened game length isn’t the only innovation. The nine-week season includes two games per night, played in a round-robin format among six teams. The top four teams will advance to a single-elimination playoff, giving players and fans a condensed, action-packed experience. Adding to the spectacle is a midseason one-on-one tournament, where the winner will take home a $250,000 prize.

“From the beginning, [Stewart] and I really set out to create a league that was founded on that principle that players deserve compensation and ownership that reflect their value.” Collier explained.

Unrivaled isn’t just about innovation on the court—it’s also about revolutionizing how players are valued. With a groundbreaking financial model, the league is setting a new standard for player compensation and ownership.

Unrivaled’s player-centered model and fresh dynamics set to redefine basketball

The league’s commitment to players is evident not just in its format but in its financial structure. With a salary pool exceeding $8 million, each player will earn a minimum of six figures, along with equity in the league. This model stands in stark contrast to traditional leagues and underscores Unrivaled’s player-first approach.

Yet, Unrivaled’s unique structure doesn’t end with its gameplay or compensation model. Its six teams were created through a pod system, ensuring balanced rosters that bring fresh pairings to the court. Coaching talent like Phil Handy and Teresa Weatherspoon will lead the charge, guiding players through this revolutionary format.

Even with its innovations, Unrivaled has faced its share of challenges. The absence of marquee names like Caitlin Clark, A’ja Wilson, and Sabrina Ionescu has stirred debate. Clark, offered over $1 million and an equity stake, declined to join, as did Wilson, who voiced her support but chose to sit out. Ionescu, recovering from injury, also opted out. Yet, their absences don’t diminish the league’s potential.

As the countdown to January 17 continues, Unrivaled is poised to redefine basketball by compressing its core into a thrilling, high-stakes 28-minute format. In this league, every second counts—and that’s what makes it truly unparalleled.