The Unrivaled 1v1 tournament was supposed to be a groundbreaking addition to Unrivaled Basketball’s inaugural season, giving WNBA players a chance to showcase their talent in a way that traditional team play doesn’t always allow. However, while the tournament has provided some exciting moments, it has also sparked concerns about its timing and long-term impact on players.
What Happened That The Unrivaled 1v1 Tournament Was Created?
The Unrivaled 1v1 tournament was designed to give players a platform to compete in a unique setting that emphasized individual skills, shot creation, and defensive versatility. Unlike the traditional 3×3 format used in Unrivaled’s regular games, this tournament was intended to provide an opportunity for players to prove themselves as elite scorers and defenders in isolation matchups.
For many athletes, especially those who might not always get the spotlight in the WNBA, this event was a way to gain recognition and boost their value heading into the next season. The competition also aligned with Unrivaled’s mission of providing an off-season alternative to overseas play, keeping WNBA players active while showcasing their talent to a larger audience.
However, the tournament’s introduction in the offseason has raised some major concerns—especially regarding injuries and their impact on the upcoming WNBA season.
The Outcome of the Unrivaled 1 VS 1 Tournament
The inaugural Unrivaled 1-on-1 Tournament wrapped up dramatically, delivering high-intensity matchups and standout performances. With 30 elite women’s basketball players competing for a $350,000 prize pool—$200,000 going to the winner—the stakes were high.
From the opening round, there were major upsets that shook up the bracket. Eighth-seeded Aaliyah Edwards made a statement early, dominating top-seeded Breanna Stewart with a commanding 12-0 victory. The upset immediately shifted expectations for the tournament and showed how unpredictable the competition would be.
As the tournament progressed, the semi-finals featured intense matchups:
- Aaliyah Edwards vs. Arike Ogunbowale – Edwards continued her impressive run by defeating Ogunbowale in a hard-fought battle, earning her place in the finals.
- Napheesa Collier vs. Azurá Stevens – Collier showcased her skill and determination, overpowering Stevens to secure her spot in the championship round.
The championship match came down to a best-of-three showdown between Napheesa Collier and Aaliyah Edwards. Edwards claimed the first game 9-6, showing poise under pressure. However, Collier bounced back in the second game with a convincing 9-4 win. In the decisive third game, Collier dominated with an 8-0 shutout, securing the championship title and the $200,000 grand prize.
Collier’s victory not only cemented her status as one of the premier players in the Unrivaled league but also demonstrated her leadership and ability to rise to the occasion. Her consistency throughout the tournament proved why she is one of the best in the game today.
The Unrivaled 1-on-1 Tournament successfully highlighted the depth of talent in women’s basketball, providing players with a platform to showcase their skills and compete at the highest level. The event’s conclusion marks a major milestone in elevating the visibility and competitive opportunities in women’s sports.
Who Was Originally Set to Compete?
The Unrivaled 1v1 tournament initially boasted an impressive lineup featuring many of the league’s top scorers and defenders. Some of the biggest names set to participate included:
- Jewell Loyd
- Arike Ogunbowale
- DiJonai Carrington
- Satou Sabally
- Azurá Stevens
- Courtney Williams
- Rae Burrell
Unfortunately, injuries and scheduling conflicts forced several players to withdraw from the tournament. Some of the notable names who had to sit out included:
- Alyssa Thomas (knee injury)
- Tiffany Hayes (concussion protocol)
- Kayla McBride (injury management)
- Natasha Cloud (lingering injury concerns)
To fill the gaps, the league brought in replacement players on short notice. This led to some unexpected matchups, but it also highlighted new talent that may not have initially been on fans’ radars.
Did the Tournament’s Timing Hurt the WNBA Season?
One of the biggest concerns surrounding the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament is its impact on the upcoming WNBA season. The WNBA’s grueling schedule already puts tremendous physical strain on its players, and adding another competitive event to their offseason has made injuries even more of an issue.
With multiple stars already dealing with injuries sustained in Unrivaled, some coaches and team executives are questioning whether this tournament was a good idea. The WNBA offseason is already short, and players typically use this time to rest and recover. Now, some of the league’s top talents will enter training camp less than 100% healthy due to injuries sustained in Unrivaled.
While the high-intensity nature of the tournament has made for exciting games, it’s also raised long-term concerns about how much wear and tear players can handle before the WNBA season even starts.
Unrivaled’s Showcase of Under-the-Radar Talent
Despite concerns, the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament has put the spotlight on players who might not have received as much attention otherwise. Players like Rae Burrell and DiJonai Carrington have used this tournament to show off their ability to create their shots and defend one-on-one.
For some, the tournament has been an opportunity to elevate their standing before heading into WNBA free agency or contract negotiations. Even players who aren’t stars in their WNBA roles have demonstrated their potential in a format that doesn’t rely on team dynamics.
The tournament also brought attention to players returning from injuries, giving them a chance to prove they’re ready for the WNBA season. Whether this exposure leads to bigger roles in the WNBA remains to be seen, but the tournament has undoubtedly changed how some players are perceived heading into the season.
WNBA Offseason Blockbuster Trades & Moves
While the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament is making headlines, the WNBA has had one of the most eventful off-seasons in recent memory. Here are some of the biggest moves:
- Kahleah Copper to Phoenix Mercury – One of the biggest trades of the offseason, the former Finals MVP is now set to pair with Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner in Phoenix.
- Jonquel Jones re-signs with New York Liberty – The Liberty locked in their superstar forward, keeping their championship core intact.
- Skylar Diggins-Smith joins Seattle Storm – After missing last season, Diggins-Smith now joins Jewell Loyd and Nneka Ogwumike in Seattle, creating another dangerous team in the West.
- Napheesa Collier’s extension with Minnesota – The Lynx made sure to keep their franchise player secured for the long run.
These moves have reshaped the balance of power in the WNBA, setting the stage for what could be one of the most competitive seasons in recent history.
When & Where Are the Unrivaled 1v1 Tournament Games?
The Unrivaled 1v1 Tournament is being held at Wayfair Arena, a custom-built, 20,000-square-foot venue in Miami, Florida, designed specifically for Unrivaled events. The arena offers an intimate setting with a seating capacity of 850, ensuring fans are close to the action.
Tournament Schedule:
- First Round: Monday, February 10, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET
- Second Round & Quarterfinals: Tuesday, February 11, 2025, at 7:00 PM ET
- Semifinals & Finals: Friday, February 14, 2025, at 7:30 PM ET
Broadcast Information:
- Monday’s and Friday’s Sessions: Airing live on TNT and truTV
- Tuesday’s Session: Broadcast on truTV
For fans interested in attending, tickets are available through Unrivaled’s official website via Ticketmaster.
The tournament features 30 players competing for a total prize pool of $350,000, with $200,000 awarded to the champion.
How the Unrivaled 1v1 Tournament Differs from the Original 3v3 Format
When Unrivaled Basketball launched, it was built around a fast-paced 3v3 format, offering WNBA players a competitive offseason alternative that blended traditional half-court play with a high-energy style. However, with the introduction of the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament, the league has shifted its focus to individual matchups, creating a completely different dynamic and strategy for players.
Here’s how the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament differs from the original 3v3 format:
1. Team vs. Individual Play
- The 3v3 format relies on team chemistry, passing, and off-ball movement, with players working together to create open looks and defensive stops.
- The 1v1 tournament is entirely about individual skill, forcing players to generate their own offense and lock down their opponent in one-on-one situations.
2. Style of Play & Strategy
- 3v3 games are a blend of isolation scoring and team coordination, requiring quick pick-and-rolls, help defense, and transition play.
- 1v1 games remove the safety net of teammates, making every possession about creating space, handling defensive pressure, and finishing efficiently.
3. Time & Scoring Differences
- In 3v3 games, scoring is fast-paced with a 12-second shot clock and continuous play after made baskets, keeping the tempo high.
- In the 1v1 format, players have more time to operate but must find ways to score efficiently without relying on a teammate’s screen or pass.
4. Physical & Mental Demands
- 3v3 basketball allows players to share the workload, resting while teammates handle possessions. This makes it less physically exhausting compared to full-court 5v5 play.
- 1v1 is relentless, requiring players to go head-to-head for every point, with no backup, no time to rest, and no second chances if their shot doesn’t fall.
5. Player Recognition & Exposure
- In 3v3 games, standout moments are often shared among teammates, meaning some role players may not always get as much attention.
- The 1v1 tournament puts every move under the spotlight, making it a pure test of skill where lesser-known players have a chance to make a name for themselves.
While Unrivaled’s 3v3 format has provided exciting team-based competition, the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament shifts the focus entirely to individual talent, offering players a chance to prove they can dominate in isolation. However, with the intensified physical demands, it also raises concerns about player fatigue and injuries ahead of the WNBA season.
What Do the Winners Get?
While the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament is about more than just money, the competition does come with some significant incentives for players:
- Cash prizes for the winners, with a substantial payout for the champion.
- Bragging rights as the league’s best 1v1 player, which could boost WNBA stock and endorsement opportunities.
- Increased visibility in the basketball world, potentially leading to higher-profile WNBA roles or lucrative overseas contracts.
For some players, this tournament is about proving they belong in the upper echelon of the WNBA. For others, it’s a way to gain leverage in future contract negotiations.
The Unrivaled 1v1 tournament has already made a major impact on players, fans, and the WNBA landscape. While it has provided electrifying matchups and showcased hidden talent, the concerns about injuries and their impact on the upcoming WNBA season cannot be ignored.
As the tournament continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see if Unrivaled makes adjustments to protect players or whether WNBA executives start pushing back against its place in the offseason. One thing is certain—this event is changing the way people view off-season basketball and could play a role in shaping future WNBA seasons.
With some of the league’s biggest stars still in the mix, all eyes will be on Miami to see who emerges as the inaugural Unrivaled 1v1 champion.
