Atkins, WNBA Stars Join Athletes Unlimited Nashville 2026

Chicago Sky guard Ariel Atkins has announced she will leave the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league to join Athletes Unlimited for its fifth women's basketball season, beginning February 4, 2026, in Nashville. Atkins cited Athletes Unlimited's player-focused environment and positive feedback from peers like Alysha Clark and Elizabeth Williams in her decision. The league features 40 professional players in a traditional 5-on-5 format, with $500,000 in bonuses and unique player-driven rules. Early signees include WNBA players NaLyssa Smith, Kiah Stokes, Aaliyah Nye, Lexie Brown, Isabelle Harrison, and others. Atkins noted she will not play internationally this year, dedicating her offseason solely to Athletes Unlimited. The move underscores the league’s growing appeal among top WNBA players.