Basketball Wives Season 12 Returns with Explosive Cast Additions, Family Feuds, and Surprising Twists – Here’s Everything You Need to Know

Reality TV lovers, rejoice—Basketball Wives is officially back, and Season 12 promises to be one of the most dynamic, dramatic, and deeply personal seasons yet.

Premiering Monday, May 5th at 8/7c on VH1, the franchise returns with its signature mix of lavish lifestyles, emotional breakthroughs, and explosive drama. But this time, the stakes are even higher.

From multi-generational storylines to spiritual awakenings and shattered friendships, this season is bringing something we’ve never seen before.

Let’s dive into everything we know so far—from returning OGs to new faces and some behind-the-scenes buzz you won’t want to miss.

They’re Done—And They’re Back

In the immortal words of reality TV queen NeNe Leakes: “They are DONE.” But don’t let that sentiment fool you—this cast is far from finished. In fact, they’re just getting started.

Season 12 is making waves before it even airs, thanks to a Mad Hatter-inspired cast photo that has fans talking.

While the whimsical tea party theme is a bold choice, the visual dimensions raised eyebrows, especially with Evelyn Lozada appearing noticeably larger than the other ladies.

Was it intentional? Maybe. But one thing is for sure: VH1 is delivering bold aesthetics and bolder storylines this time around.

The Power Players Return

The new season features some of the franchise’s most iconic figures. Returning to shake the table are:

Evelyn Lozada – Back in the spotlight and front-and-center in promos, she’s sure to reignite old flames—figuratively and literally.

Jackie Christie – Longtime fans know she brings the chaos and the heart in equal measure.

Jennifer Williams – Fresh off a wedding, but her marital bliss may be short-lived thanks to new legal troubles.

Brandi Maxiell – Ready to explore life after 20 years as a devoted wife, Brandi’s storyline focuses on rediscovery and independence.

Brittany Renner – Embarking on a spiritual transformation and trying to make a name for herself beyond NBA ex-drama.

And yes, Shaunie Henderson is making a guest appearance. Although likely limited to a brief cameo or group dinner scene, her inclusion in the official cast photo proves she’s still the queen bee behind the scenes.

Don’t be surprised if her guest spot was filmed in front of a green screen in Texas—she’s keeping it minimal, but her presence still carries weight.

Fresh Faces, Fresh Energy

Season 12 brings an exciting mix of new personalities designed to shake up the dynamics and challenge the OGs:

Ming Lee – A beauty mogul whose business acumen and glam aesthetic will add a new layer of boss energy to the mix.

Chantel Christie – Jackie’s daughter steps into the spotlight, ushering in a multi-generational Basketball Wives twist. Expect some mother-daughter tension and fierce independence as Chantel attempts to carve her own path.

Ty Young – Former WNBA player Ty Young enters the fray, bringing her perspective as an athlete and a public figure dealing with heartbreak and moving on.

Together, these newcomers promise to breathe new life into the franchise while creating fresh friction with the returning cast.

Major Storylines to Watch

The press release teases personal breakthroughs, spiritual awakenings, and new beginnings—but let’s break down what we’re really about to see:

Jennifer vs. Evelyn: The Grudge Match

Jennifer’s marriage is already under stress due to her husband’s legal issues. Add in a reignited feud with Evelyn, and you’ve got a recipe for fireworks.

Long-standing tension between the two resurfaces, leading to some of the most emotional moments of the season.

Will they ever be able to let the past go? Or will this be another season of table-flipping shade?

Jackie and Chantel: Family, Fame, and Friction

Jackie is eager to mentor her daughter through the reality TV world she helped build. But Chantel has other plans—and she’s not interested in following in her mother’s chaotic footsteps.

This storyline explores the generational gap between the two and may be the most emotionally complex arc of the season.

Brittany Renner: Spiritual Renewal or Strategic Rebrand?

Brittany is on a journey of self-discovery, exploring her spirituality and redefining her identity outside the shadows of former NBA entanglements.

With support from longtime friend Denise Garcia, she’s out to prove there’s more to her than gossip blogs and social media headlines.

Brandi’s New Chapter

After two decades of marriage, Brandi is embracing independence and learning who she is outside of her relationship.

Her storyline may be quieter than the others, but expect emotional depth and powerful self-realization moments.

Ty Young & Ming Lee: From Power Couple to Painful Split

Ty and Ming’s move to LA was supposed to be the beginning of their dream life together—but it’s turned into a breakup played out in the public eye.

Now, they’re both navigating heartbreak, identity, and next steps under the glaring spotlight of reality TV.

The Real Housewives of Atlanta Ratings Surge

And speaking of reality TV revivals, The Real Housewives of Atlanta is also making waves.

According to The Neighborhood Talk, RHOA’s Season 16 premiere drew over 2.5 million viewers in its first seven days, making it the second most-watched Housewives season premiere on Peacock—trailing only one mystery franchise yet to be named.

That kind of momentum is rare these days, and fans are crediting Kenya Moore for much of the renewed interest.

As DJ Richie Scott pointed out, Kenya has been a scene-stealer this season—effortlessly floating through storylines, dishing out subtle shade, and keeping the momentum going with ease.

Let’s Talk About the Aesthetics

While fans are hyped for Season 12, not everyone is in love with the visuals. The cast photo’s color grading and layout have been widely critiqued.

Some feel the sizing of the women looks off—particularly Evelyn’s prominent placement.

Still, credit where it’s due: VH1 tried something different, and the Mad Hatter aesthetic certainly makes a statement.

What’s Next?

With Season 12 around the corner, Basketball Wives is ready to reclaim its spot as one of reality TV’s most talked-about franchises.

Will sisterhood prevail? Can these women navigate old wounds and new feuds without completely imploding?

One thing is certain—there will be shade, tears, breakthroughs, and more than a few wig-shifting moments.

Bonus Tea: Global Adventures with DJ Richie Sky

Before we go, DJ Richie Sky is also getting ready to jet-set across the globe. Upcoming trips include:

Zanzibar (September 22–28)
Cape Town (November 30–December 7)

These curated luxury trips offer fans a chance to explore Africa in style, with safaris, real estate tours, wine tastings, and cultural immersions all on the itinerary. You can find more info via the links in his video descriptions.

Get Ready, Because Season 12 of Basketball Wives Drops May 5th—And You Don’t Want to Miss It. Whether you’re in it for the drama, the fashion, or the fiery family dynamics, this season promises to deliver all that and more.

Stay tuned. The court is about to get very crowded.