Philadelphia Hosts Sold-Out Unrivaled Women's Basketball League and Celebrates Local Star Natasha Cloud's Homecoming
Philadelphia is set to host a historic women’s basketball event as the Unrivaled league, created by WNBA stars Napheesa Collier and Breanna Stewart, sells out over 20,000 tickets at Xfinity Mobile Arena. This marks the league's first appearance outside its home base, drawing significant national attention and emphasizing Philadelphia's reputation as a women's sports town. The event features top players including Natasha Cloud and Kahleah Copper, both hometown heroes returning to Philadelphia. Cloud, a native of Broomall and a former St. Joe’s standout, describes playing in her city as a 'dream come true' and credits her early coach Mr. Ross and her aunt Dawn for inspiring her disciplined approach to basketball. She has achieved WNBA success, including a 2019 championship with the Washington Mystics, and remains active in social justice causes. Cloud’s return to Philadelphia for Unrivaled is especially meaningful as it allows her to reconnect with her roots and inspire local youth. The weekend includes VIP experiences, city tours, and watch parties, with additional events happening throughout the city. The league’s presence highlights Philadelphia’s vibrant support for women’s sports, with resale prices for tickets reaching $165, and marks a significant milestone in the return of professional women’s basketball to the city since 1998. The event also celebrates the broader growth of women’s sports and the breaking of barriers, exemplified by Jen Pawol becoming MLB’s first female umpire and rising athletes across various sports.
Trend: unrivaled basketball