Issa Rae, the multi-talented actress, producer, and entrepreneur with a net worth of approximately $20 million, has expanded her footprint in professional sports as an investor. In 2026, she joined an impressive group of investors in Unrivaled, a 3-on-3 women’s basketball league created by Breanna Stewart and Napheesa Collier. The league recently completed an oversubscribed Series C funding round led to a valuation of $650 million, with Rae joining notable sports figures like Carmelo Anthony, Coco Gauff, Giannis Antetokounmpo, and Trae Young. Rae expressed pride in supporting Unrivaled’s mission to elevate women’s basketball and mentioned her excitement about contributing to the league’s future growth.

Beyond Unrivaled, Issa Rae holds stakes in other professional sports ventures, including the Los Angeles Orbit, a women's volleyball team competing in League One Volleyball. Additionally, she is part of the ownership group for San Diego FC, a Major League Soccer club. Her diverse investments signify a growing commitment to supporting women’s and professional sports, enhancing her profile beyond entertainment into significant sports entrepreneurship. These moves align with Rae’s broader ambition to be involved in projects that inspire and set new standards in their fields.

Rae’s entrance into these sports leagues complements her ongoing creative endeavors, including her return to HBO in 2026 with a new comedy pilot titled “Untitled Male Friendship Show,” marking her return to television five years after her hit series “Insecure” ended. This balance of entertainment and sports investments highlights her multifaceted career approach, combining cultural influence with strategic business interests. Rae’s investments are part of a broader trend where celebrities are becoming pivotal players in the ownership and development of sports leagues.

The leaders behind Unrivaled stress the importance of raising expectations for athletes and fans alike, aiming to provide an outstanding competitive environment while expanding the fan experience. Rae's involvement is seen as a boost to this vision. Her position alongside elite athletes and investors showcases her as a powerful figure in sports ownership, helping to grow the exposure and economic potential of women’s professional sports. This strategic positioning not only diversifies her portfolio but also supports the advancement of women athletes and sports equity.