The sports world is buzzing with the latest news, and it's got WNBA fans in a frenzy! Imagine the shockwaves rippling through the league as the talented Kelsey Mitchell, a star player for the Indiana Fever, has just signed with the rival league, Project B. But wait, there's more to this story than meets the eye.
Project B, a global women's basketball league set to debut in November 2026, has made a bold move by signing Mitchell, who is not only a player but also a partner and owner in the league. This announcement comes on the heels of Project B's plans to host tournaments across Asia, Europe, and Latin America during the 2026 WNBA offseason.
Mitchell's statement about the move is powerful: 'Project B represents the next evolution of women's basketball. I'm honored to be part of this global movement and can't wait to compete on a stage designed for the future of the sport.'
But here's where it gets controversial. Some fans took to social media to taunt Fever supporters, claiming they had dismissed Project B as a 'trashy league' and are now left crying. Others questioned the league's funding, suggesting it might compromise women's rights. And this is the part most people miss: Project B is offering lucrative deals, with seven-figure salaries starting at $2 million per year and potential eight-figure earnings for multi-year contracts. Players also receive equity in the league, a unique feature that sets it apart.
Mitchell's stellar 2025 WNBA season, where she led Indiana in scoring and was named to the All-WNBA First Team, further highlights the significance of this move. Despite her teammate Caitlin Clark's limited games, Mitchell guided Indiana to the semifinals. Now, Mitchell joins a growing list of WNBA stars in this startup league, including Nneka Ogwumike, Alyssa Thomas, Jewell Loyd, and Jonquel Jones.
So, what's your take on this? Is Project B a game-changer for women's basketball, or are there underlying concerns that need addressing? The court is open for discussion!