Streaming giant Peacock is set to bring a fresh perspective to women’s professional basketball with a new scripted comedy series titled The W. Developed by former WNBA All-Star and ESPN analyst Chiney Ogwumike, the show promises to capture the highs and lows of life in the league. With NBC Universal acquiring the rights to broadcast NBA games next season, this project further solidifies the company’s investment in basketball content.
The concept for The W follows a rookie WNBA player navigating the intense world of professional basketball alongside her inexperienced agent. Rather than focusing on front-office dynamics like the Netflix series Running Point—which loosely depicted the life of Los Angeles Lakers owner Jeanie Buss—or the coaching storyline of Ted Lasso, this series will immerse viewers in the everyday triumphs and struggles of a rising athlete. The show aims to balance humor with the reality of the sport, shedding light on both the glamour and the grind of women’s athletics.
Bringing their expertise to the project are Carly Mensch and Liz Flahive, the creative minds behind the acclaimed Netflix series GLOW, which centered on women’s wrestling in the 1980s. Their involvement suggests a mix of compelling storytelling, sharp humor, and a keen eye for portraying strong female characters. The show is also inspired by Ogwumike’s personal experiences in the league, particularly her decision to entrust her representation to Allison Galer, a then-24-year-old agent, breaking conventional industry norms.
Ogwumike’s journey in basketball is nothing short of remarkable. A Stanford University standout, she was the first overall pick in the 2014 WNBA Draft and quickly made an impact, earning Rookie of the Year honors that same season. She played for the Connecticut Sun before joining the Los Angeles Sparks, where she wrapped up her career in 2023. Off the court, she has made history as the first Black woman and first WNBA player to host a national radio show for ESPN, further cementing her influence in sports media.
The WNBA is currently experiencing a surge in popularity, with record-breaking viewership and attendance numbers in the 2024 season. Much of this momentum has been driven by rookie sensation Caitlin Clark, whose rapid rise in the league has captured the attention of basketball fans worldwide. As excitement builds for the 2025 season, which kicks off on May 16, The W aims to capitalize on this moment by offering audiences an entertaining yet insightful look at the world of women’s professional basketball. With its mix of humor, heart, and authenticity, the series is poised to become a must-watch for sports and comedy fans alike.
