Jewell Loyd Joins Project B: WNBA Star to Global Women’s League

Jewell Loyd Joins Project B, the New Women’s Basketball League

Two-time Olympic gold medalist Jewell Loyd has announced her joining Project B, the new women’s basketball league. This league is expected to begin its activities in Europe and Asia in November 2026. Loyd made the announcement through her social media on Tuesday. This news comes a day after former WNBA MVP Jonquel Jones confirmed her participation in the league, which promises high salaries and equity participation for the players. Loyd, who contributed to the Las Vegas Aces’ victory in their third championship in four seasons, expressed her enthusiasm for the future of women’s basketball.

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

Jonquel Jones also shared her excitement on social media about being able to continue competing with and against the best players in the world, as well as having the opportunity to explore new cultures. Alana Beard, Project B’s basketball director, highlighted the importance of these additions:

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.

Alana Beard

Loyd and Jones join WNBA stars Nneka Ogwumike and Alyssa Thomas in this new league. Loyd, 32, already has experience playing abroad and participated in the inaugural season of Unrivaled last year. Project B and Unrivaled will have overlapping dates in the future. Project B will have 66 players divided into six teams. Each player will receive a salary higher than that currently offered in the WNBA and, presumably, also higher than that of Unrivaled. Although financial details haven’t been disclosed, the prospect of more lucrative compensation comes at a crucial time for women’s professional basketball. Interest in the sport has grown significantly in recent years, and the WNBA is in tense negotiations with the players’ union over a new collective bargaining agreement, where salary and revenue distribution are key points. Project B plans to play its inaugural season until April 2027, which would not interfere with the usual WNBA schedule.