Azzi Fudd Picks Project B

Like almost everyone else, I expected Azzi Fudd to join Unrivaled. She seemed like a natural fit for the league, especially with the UConn connection, the growing popularity, and the way Unrivaled has quickly become one of the best stories in women’s basketball. So yes, I was surprised when Fudd chose Project B instead. But after thinking about it for more than five seconds, the reaction should not be disappointment. It should be excitement.

Why can’t both leagues win? That is the real question. I am a huge fan of Unrivaled. I love that it is gaining popularity, building real momentum, and proving there is a serious offseason appetite for elite women’s basketball. Seeing the league sell out arenas in Philadelphia and New York last year was a major signal. This thing is not a gimmick. It is here to stay, and the destination games should become a huge part of the future. Come to Las Vegas. Come to Los Angeles. Come to San Francisco. Bring elite women’s basketball to major cities and let the sport keep growing.

But Project B is exciting, too. Fudd reportedly chose the new global 5-on-5 league, which plans to feature 66 players, 11 teams, and seven two-week tournaments around the world, with Tokyo and Valencia already announced as host cities. The league is also reportedly offering strong pay and a unique chance for players to compete internationally while spending meaningful time in major global destinations.

That is not bad for the game. That is great for the game. More leagues means more leverage. More platforms. More money. More opportunities. More women’s basketball in front of more people around the world.

So I love it. Keep getting your money, girls. Keep building the sport. Keep sharing your talent, excellence, and star power with the world.