Jewell Loyd Joins Project B, the New Women’s Basketball League
Two-time Olympic gold medalist Jewell Loyd has announced her joining of Project B, the innovative women’s basketball league that plans to start its activities in Europe and Asia in November 2026. The news was announced by Loyd through her social media on Tuesday, 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, playing a role off the bench for the first time in her career, already has three WNBA titles to her name.Jonquel Jones, for her part, expressed on social media her enthusiasm for “continuing to play against the best players in the world, playing with the best players in the world and having the opportunity to get to know 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 even expected to be higher than those of Unrivaled. Although financial details have not been disclosed, the possibility of more lucrative compensation comes at a crucial time for professional women’s basketball. Interest in the sport has increased considerably in recent years, and the WNBA along with the players’ union are in negotiations over a new collective bargaining agreement, with much of the discussion focused on salaries and revenue distribution. Project B plans to play 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 of women’s basketball, and the global momentum is real. I am excited to contribute to shaping the future for the next generation.
Jewell Loyd
