Unrivaled’s 1v1 tournament starts this evening, and 26 women will compete for their share of $300,000. $200K will go to the champion, $50K to the runner-up, and semifinalists will each receive $25K. Not too shabby. Though Angel Reese will be returning to Unrivaled and rejoining her previous team and reigning champs, Rose BC, she will not be participating in the 1v1 tournament. For personal reasons, I would like to see Aaliyah Edwards complete her revenge tour, and I’m not sorry if she knocks off your fave in pursuit of the crown.
Everyone loves Li Yueru.
Skylar Diggins in her color commentary era.
Unrivaled Development Pool cheering for Zaza’s first game.
Unrivaled has had quite a bit of shuffling this past week: players have been traded to new teams, Angel Reese has returned, and a few 1v1 matchups have been cancelled. Nonetheless, this does not overshadow the incredible success and competitiveness seen at Unrivaled Philly. The 2-game special event brought in 21,490 fans! 🤯 It was such a smashing success that an Unrivaled co-founder says they’ll be returning to Philadelphia next year. If they were to go to another city besides Philadelphia, where would you prefer the ladies to compete?
While Unrivaled seems to be thriving, and an unsigned CBA looms over players and teams, there is some solace to be found in the announcement of the 2026 Team USA Women’s World Cup Qualifying Team. With Coach Kara Lawson at the helm, this roster is stacked with 5×5 Olympians, 3×3 Olympians, and standout WNBA rookies. I’m probably most excited to see Rhyne Howard, Angel Reese, and Kiki Iriafen on the roster. Veronica Burton was invited to camp in Durham, but didn’t make the final cut. I still think it says a lot that she was invited, and her performance at Unrivaled has been incredible. Here’s hoping she will make an appearance on a future team. The FIBA Qualifying Tournament starts game play in San Juan, Puerto Rico, on March 11th, conveniently after the Unrivaled season ends. It’s almost like they drew it up. 😏
I’m signing off. The first 1v1 matchup starts in 1 hour. May your favorite player win and your bracket stay unbroken (unless they’re going up against Aaliyah Edwards)!
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