Philadelphia is gearing up for an exciting addition to its sports calendar in 2026 with the introduction of professional women’s basketball. The newly founded league, Unrivaled, will host its inaugural games at the Xfinity Mobile Arena in South Philadelphia on January 30, marking the city’s first women’s professional basketball matches since 1998. The announcement was made by city leaders and league organizers at an event in LOVE Park.
About Unrivaled
Unrivaled was co-founded by WNBA stars Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier, featuring eight teams that compete in fast-paced 3-on-3 matches. The league launched in January 2025 and has recently partnered with Xfinity to enhance its visibility and reach. The games will begin at 7:30 p.m. and will be broadcasted on TNT, truTV, and HBO Max, providing an exciting opportunity for fans to engage with the sport.
Community Support and Advocacy
The initiative to bring Unrivaled to Philadelphia was fueled by the efforts of Mayor Cherelle Parker and The Philadelphia Sisters, an organization dedicated to promoting women’s sports. Founded by comedian Wanda Sykes and others, the group plays a vital role in advocating for women’s athletic opportunities. Sykes, who is also an investor in Unrivaled, expressed her enthusiasm: “Advancing women’s pro sports in Philly has been a goal we’ve passionately pursued for years, and this initiative represents the perfect alignment of purpose and passion.” She further emphasized the significance of Philadelphia being the starting point for Unrivaled’s tour.
Growing Enthusiasm for Women’s Sports
The excitement surrounding women’s basketball in Philadelphia is on the rise. In addition to Unrivaled, the city is set to welcome a WNBA expansion team in 2030. The recent opening of Marsha’s, a queer women’s sports bar on South Street, reflects the growing interest in women’s athletics, with plans for another similar venue underway. Notably, actress Aubrey Plaza has been spotted supporting the movement, recently attending a WNBA game while wearing a shirt that proclaimed, “Philly is a women’s sports town.”
A Packed Sporting Schedule for 2026
Alongside these groundbreaking basketball events, Philadelphia will host a variety of professional sporting events throughout 2026. The city is preparing for high-profile competitions, including the MLB All-Star Game, World Cup matches, men’s March Madness games, the PGA Championship, and the return of the Philadelphia Cycling Classic. The year will also be marked by celebrations for the country’s 250th anniversary, further enriching Philadelphia’s sporting landscape.
Tickets and Broadcast Information
Tickets for the Unrivaled games are currently available through Ticketmaster and the arena’s website. Fans are encouraged to secure their seats early to witness the exciting atmosphere surrounding these historic matches.
