Tamika Catchings Partners with UPSHOT League as Investor and Advisor

The UPSHOT League, a newly established professional women's basketball league, is set to launch its inaugural season in May 2026. Recently, it announced that the renowned Tamika Catchings has joined as both an advisor and investor. This development is particularly exciting as the league focuses on expanding professional opportunities for female players and fostering community connections.

Catchings steps into this role alongside legendary basketball figures Cheryl Miller and Ann Meyers Drysdale, both of whom have greatly influenced women’s basketball through their respective careers. Known for her impressive achievements on the court, including being a four-time Olympic gold medalist, Catchings has vowed to support talented players and amplify their prospects in the professional sphere.

In her own words, Catchings expressed her enthusiasm about her new position: “I'm so excited to join the UPSHOT League alongside Cheryl and Ann, two of the most influential people in our sport. There are so many talented players and I'm proud to be a part of the effort to create new opportunities for them.”

A Legacy of Excellence

Tamika Catchings holds a legendary status in the history of women’s basketball. Over a career that spanned 15 years with the Indiana Fever, she carved out her legacy by leading the team to a WNBA championship in 2012. Her accolades are numerous, including five WNBA Defensive Player of the Year awards and her induction into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame. Catchings’ combination of relentless defense, leadership, and unwavering dedication to the sport provides a strong foundation for the UPSHOT League as it gears up for its first season.

The UPSHOT League, co-founded by sports visionaries Andy Kaufmann and Donna Orender, aims to create a platform that prioritizes women athletes in a professional setting. Their mission goes beyond basketball; they seek to create a trusted connection with the communities that their teams will serve, making meaningful impacts off the court as well.

In her remarks, Commissioner Donna Orender praised Catchings’ role within the league: “Tamika Catchings represents the very best of our sport—competitive excellence, leadership, and a deep commitment to community. Her experience as a champion and ambassador for the game will help guide our league as we build a platform that expands opportunities for women in professional basketball.”

The Trailblazing Team

Catchings is joining an exceptional team of advisors within the league that includes Cheryl Miller. Widely celebrated as one of the most impactful figures in women’s sports, Miller has excelled in various areas, from coaching to broadcasting. She has provided her insights as a sideline reporter for NBA games and has been deeply involved in sports commentary, showcasing her passion for basketball and her commitment to its growth.

Also among the advisory team is Ann Meyers Drysdale, a trailblazer who has achieved success across all facets of basketball—be it high school, college, international competition, or professional levels. Her journey and insights continue to resonate in sports broadcasting today.

The UPSHOT League is on a mission to celebrate elite competition through a structure that emphasizes player-focused initiatives. With a planned roster that includes teams from cities like Charlotte, Jacksonville, Savannah, and Greensboro, the league looks to create a vibrant environment dedicated to the empowerment of female athletes.

As excitement builds for the 2026 season, the UPSHOT League stands as a beacon of hope and potential for women's basketball, and with figures like Tamika Catchings leading the charge, the future looks bright. Together, they are poised to create lasting change in the landscape of women’s professional sports, breaking barriers and setting new standards for generations to come.

For media inquiries or additional information, contact LeslieAnne Wade at UPShot League.