Home / Sports / Ex-WNBA President Creates Opportunity League
Ex-WNBA President Creates Opportunity League
11 May
Summary
- Upshot League aims to solve WNBA's talent pipeline and roster shortage issues.
- The league is structured to allow players mid-season WNBA opportunities.
- Upshot League begins play with four teams and plans for expansion.
The Upshot League, an initiative spearheaded by former WNBA president Donna Orender, has officially commenced operations as an "opportunity league." This new league aims to tackle the WNBA's ongoing issues with talent pipeline depth and in-season roster shortages. Orender envisions the Upshot League functioning similarly to the NBA's G League, providing a domestic solution for talent development.
The league's structure inherently supports collaboration with the WNBA, allowing Upshot contracted players to seek opportunities with WNBA teams mid-season. This flexibility is expected to appeal to players on the cusp of WNBA rosters.
Founded in Jacksonville, the Upshot League tipped off on May 15, 2026, with four teams: the Jacksonville Waves, Charlotte Crown, Greensboro Groove, and Savannah Steel. The league features a 34-game regular season culminating in a September postseason.
Currently comprising 44 players across its four franchises, the Upshot League has secured $40 million in funding. All games will be livestreamed on the Upshot League's official YouTube channel.
Prominent figures in women's basketball are associated with the league, including Taj McWilliams-Franklin as Vice President of Basketball Operations and Tamika Catchings as an advisor and investor. Shaquille O'Neal's brand, Dunkman, provides the league's official uniforms.
The Upshot League plans significant expansion, intending to add franchises in Baltimore and Nashville next year, with a goal of reaching 12 teams within three years and eventually a 30-market presence.
