Jewell Loyd Joins Project B: A New Chapter for Women’s Basketball
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Jewell Loyd has announced her joining Project B, the new women’s basketball league that plans to start operations in Europe and Asia in November 2026. The news was communicated by the player herself through her social media. This announcement comes a day after former WNBA MVP Jonquel Jones confirmed her participation in this emerging league, which promises players high salaries and equity participation. Loyd, who contributed to the Las Vegas Aces’ triumph in their third championship in four seasons, standing out from the bench for the first time in her career, thus adds three WNBA titles to her record.Jonquel Jones also expressed her enthusiasm on social media, stating her desire to “continue playing against the best players in the world, play with the best players in the world and be able to see new parts of the world”. Alana Beard, Project B’s basketball director, commented that “Jonquel and Jewell represent the core principles of Project B: elite talent, global impact, and leadership beyond the court. Both have defined excellence in their own way and are now redefining what is possible for players and fans around the world. Having them as partners and owners reinforces everything we are building.” Both players join WNBA stars Nneka Ogwumike and Alyssa Thomas in this new league. Loyd, 32, has already played abroad and participated in the inaugural season of Unrivaled last year. Project B and Unrivaled will have overlapping dates in the future. Project B plans to have 66 players distributed across six teams. Each player will receive a salary higher than that currently offered by the WNBA, and it is expected that they will also be higher than those of Unrivaled. Although financial details have not been disclosed, the prospect of more lucrative compensation comes at a crucial time for women’s professional basketball. Interest in the sport has increased in recent years, and the WNBA and the players’ union are immersed in tense negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement, with much of the dispute centered on salaries and revenue distribution. Project B plans to hold its inaugural season until April 2027, which would not interfere with the usual WNBA schedule.Every step forward in this sport is an investment in what is possible. I believe in the direction that women’s basketball is taking, and the global momentum is real. I am excited to help shape what’s coming for the next generation.
Jewell Loyd
