Project B, a new global basketball company, will launch a women’s league next fall with six teams playing tournaments in Asia, Europe and the Americas, co-founder Grady Burnett told The Athletic. Maverick Carter, LeBron James’ business partner, is no longer involved, despite initial speculation about his role.
Several sources close to star NBA players indicated genuine curiosity about the venture, with players and agents attracted by the prospect of making more money and receiving equity stakes not available in the NBA. Carter’s departure could significantly impact those discussions.
The women’s competition will feature eleven players per team competing in seven two-week tournaments from November to April. Former WNBA star Alana Beard will serve as Chief Basketball Officer, while Candace Parker, Steve Young, Novak Djokovic and Sloane Stephens are among the investors and advisors.
Burnett, a former Google and Facebook executive, confirmed that Project B has already signed WNBA players and has begun negotiations with additional stars. The salaries are expected to be “multiples higher” than current WNBA compensation, with players also receiving equity stakes in the league.
“The growth in women’s sports right now is on par with anything in AI,” Burnett said. “It’s truly majestic.”
The league will be headquartered in Singapore and partnered with Sela, an entertainment company owned by the Saudi Public Investment Fund. Burnett and Skype co-founder Geoff Prentice began developing the concept two years ago.
Burnett did not rule out expanding into men’s basketball, possibly as early as next fall. However, the NBA’s standard contracts prohibit players from participating in other leagues during their contracts.
“We’re going to focus on the women’s side now,” Burnett said. “I think it’s logical to assume that we’ll do other things after that.”
A spokesperson for Carter said he provided advice months ago but is no longer working with Project B or any European basketball league. Multiple sources told The Athletic that people with NBA backgrounds have interviewed for positions in the new venture.
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