"Thrilled" - Geno Auriemma makes his feelings known on investing in Napheesa Collier-owned Unrivaled league

Geno Auriemma expressed his happiness at being a part of Unrivaled, the newest league in women's basketball, which will tip off on Jan. 17 in Miami. The UConn coach made his feelings known about investing in the professional league founded by former players Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart on Saturday's press conference ahead of the Huskies' weekend showdown with the Villanova Wildcats.

Unrivaled announced on May 30, 2024, that Auriemma was among a group of investors who provided funds in the league's seed round. The list included actor Ashton Kutcher, basketball legend Carmelo Anthony, and NBA players Tyus and Tre Jones.

Auriemma shared that he was honored to be part of such a venture that would help grow the game of women's basketball.

"I think it’s a great concept. Obviously, I was thrilled to be asked to participate in it," Auriemma said (Timestamp 11:20). "The level of play that these players bring. The level of competition that is going to be evident when they play."

"The fact that a lot of people tuning in know something about these players and maybe haven’t seen enough of them. That will certainly help grow their individual brands — who they are but also the WNBA."

Auriemma praised Collier and Stewart for founding the league, which the Huskies coach believes will help the participating players not only financially but also improve their game.

"It’s another push towards getting the best players to stay here and not have to travel overseas to supplement their incomes," Auriemma said. "You can’t discount the competitive level is going to help them improve."

"Going into next summer is a huge moment for the league and the people who had the idea about this league. Stewie and Pheesa and their respective groups. I think it’s a brilliant idea and I’m excited to support it, and I just think it’s going to be a home run for everybody involved."

Geno Auriemma's former UConn stars to see action in Unrivaled

Six teams will be participating in the inaugural season of the Unrivaled Women's Basketball League. Laces BC, Lunar Owls BC, Mist BC, Phantom BC, Rose BC and Vinyl BC will play each other in a round-robin format, with two matches set to be played on each game night.

Minnesota Lynx forward Napheesa Collier (#24) defends against New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart (#30) during the second half of Game Three of the 2024 WNBA Finals at Target Center. Photo: Imagn

Geno Auriemma's former players at UConn, including Napheesa Collier, Breanna Stewart, Tiffany Hayes, Stefanie Dolson, Aaliyah Edwards, Katie Lou Samuelson and Azura Stevens, will see action in the league's first season.

Paige Bueckers and Flau'jae Johnson have signed NIL deals with Unrivaled and are expected to play in the league once they turn professional.