Today, UPSHOT announced that women’s basketball legend Chamique Holdsclaw has joined the League as an investor, bringing her decades of experience in the women’s game to the ownership group as the league enters its next phase of growth.
Holdsclaw’s investment reflects a shared commitment to expanding professional playing opportunities for elite women’s basketball players as UPSHOT enters new markets ahead of the 2027 season.
One of the most decorated players in women’s basketball history, Holdsclaw was a three-time NCAA champion and two-time National Player of the Year at the University of Tennessee before becoming the No. 1 overall pick in the 1999 WNBA Draft. During her professional career, she earned six WNBA All-Star selections and won an Olympic gold medal with Team USA at the 2000 Sydney Games.
“Basketball gave me a platform, a purpose, and opportunities that changed my life. It was important for me to become an owner with UPSHOT to help create those same opportunities for the next generation,” said Holdsclaw. “I’m excited to have a seat at the table where the future of our game is being built. I love that this league gives more women a place to compete, grow, and continue to chase the game we love.”
“Chamique is a champion at every level of the game, and having her perspective at the ownership table is incredibly valuable as we think about where UPSHOT goes next,” said Andy Kaufmann, UPSHOT Co-Founder and CEO of Zawyer Sports & Entertainment. “She believes deeply in what we’re creating for players and communities.”
UPSHOT completed its inaugural season in August, with the Charlotte Crown earning the league’s first championship following a season of play across Charlotte, Greensboro, Jacksonville, and Savannah. Planning for the 2027 season is underway, with new teams in Baltimore and Nashville joining the league and additional expansion markets in development.
The league was created to expand the number of high-level professional opportunities in women’s basketball in the United States — a mission that continues to guide UPSHOT as it enters its second season.
ABOUT THE UPSHOT LEAGUE
The UPSHOT League is a premier women’s professional basketball league built on elite competition, player opportunity, and community connection. With a foundation rooted in high-level talent and global experience, the league aims to redefine the professional landscape while expanding opportunities for women’s basketball in the United States. The league currently consists of six teams, including: Jacksonville Waves, Charlotte Crown, Greensboro Groove, Savannah Steel, Baltimore Starlings, and Nashville Vibe. For more information, including live game schedules, tickets, and real-time statistics, visit the UPSHOT league website at upshotleague.com or follow @upshotleague on major social platforms.