Season 2 of Unrivaled kicks off today, bringing back the thrilling 3v3 basketball action in Miami, Florida. After a season of buildup and anticipation, it’s time for the athletes to hit the court as the league looks to crown its second champion.
Will Rose BC secure another title? Can Shoelaces BC overcome last year’s injury challenges? And how will the two newcomers, Breeze BC and Hive BC, prove their worth? Get the full scoop with team-by-team insights before the season gets underway.
Breeze BC
Head Coach: Noel Quinn
Returning Players: None
New Additions: Paige Bueckers (captain), Cameron Brink, Rikea Jackson, Aari McDonald, Dominic Malonga, Kate Martin.
Coach’s Take: Learning to adapt to 3v3 basketball is a new experience, but the team’s young and skilled roster, many with WNBA experience, shows promise.
Player Highlight: Aari McDonald is excited about the fast pace and using her offensive skills to dominate.
Watch For: Despite being new, Breeze BC has generated a lot of buzz, selling out all its jerseys. With Bueckers leading pick-and-roll plays alongside Malonga and Brink, they could be playoff contenders if they adjust well.
Hive BC
Head Coach: Renaka
Returning Players: None
New Additions: Sonia Citron (captain), Monique Billings, Kelsey Mitchell, Saniyah Rivers, Natisha Heedeman, Ezee Magbegor.
Coach’s Take: Hive BC aims to play an up-tempo, defense-focused game while scoring heavily.
Player Highlight: Sonia Citron is eager to grow in the 3-on-3 format, surrounded by talented teammates.
Watch For: With veterans and young talent, managing rotations will be key. Questions remain about their 3-point shooting depth when starters rest.
Shoelaces BC
Head Coach: Andrew Wade
Returning Players: Jackie Young (captain), Alyssa Thomas
New Additions: Naz Hillmon, Brittney Sykes, Jordan Canada, Maddie Siegrist
Coach’s Take: 3v3 requires different skills like isolations and ball protection; this league is expected to help players improve those areas.
Player Highlight: Naz Hillmon reflects on a milestone 2025 filled with accomplishments and gratitude.
Watch For: Injuries impacted their first season, but with healthier key players, they could be serious title contenders combining inside scoring and perimeter shooting.
Lunar Owl BC
Head Coach: DJ Sackman
Returning Players: Nafeesa Collier (captain), Skylar Diggins
New Additions: Aliyah Edwards, Mabry, Rachel Banham, Rebecca Allen
Coach’s Take: The team values the versatility of players like Mabry and shooting ability from Banham and Allen, essential for their style.
Player Highlight: Skylar Diggins feels more prepared this season with prior experience.
Watch For: Collier’s season-ending injury is a major setback, placing pressure on others to fill the void, especially with their strong perimeter shooting.
Mist BC
Head Coach: Zach O’Brien
Returning Players: Breanna Stewart (captain)
New Additions: Arike Ogunbowale, Veronica Burton, Alisha Gray, Alana Smith, Lee Yeul
Coach’s Take: The team focuses on speed and versatility, confident in Stewart as a strong foundation.
Player Highlight: Arike Ogunbowale is excited to reunite with familiar teammates and compete with a strong lineup.
Watch For: After a poor last season, Mist BC looks poised for a comeback with elite talent surrounding Stewart.
Phantom BC
Head Coach: Ronika Hodges
Returning Players: Satou Sabally, Natasha Cloud
New Additions: Kelsey Plum (captain), Aliyah Boston, Tiffany Hayes, Kiki Iriafen, Dana Evans
Coach’s Take: The Phantoms want to play fast but also know when to strategically slow the game down.
Player Highlight: Kiki Iriafen is focused on learning and improving to reach the top level.
Watch For: Sabally’s concussion recovery is a blow; the team may struggle with size and defense against bigger opponents but has some strong guards.
Rose BC
Head Coach: Nora Henry
Returning Players: Carlea Copper (captain), Chelsea Gray, Lexi Hull, Azura Stevens
New Additions: Shakira Austin, Te’a Sutton
Coach’s Take: The team values the strong bond and continuity among returning players and aims to build on last year’s success.
Player Highlight: Azura Stevens is motivated to defend their title with focused determination.
Watch For: Defending champions Rose BC start as favorites, with a balanced roster that can stretch the floor and defend well.
Vinyl BC
Head Coach: Teresa Weatherspoon
Returning Players: Dearica Hamby (captain), Ryne Howard, Ray Burrell
New Additions: Brittney Griner, Courtney Williams, Erica Wheeler
Coach’s Take: Defensive consistency is Vinyl’s key focus, believing it’s crucial for success in the league.
Player Highlight: Ryne Howard acknowledges the mental challenge of 3v3’s fast pace and intensity.
Watch For: The team’s veteran core is expected to perform well, but Griner’s defensive limitations will require teammates to provide coverage.
Fan Take: This season of Unrivaled is a pivotal moment for WNBA fans as it showcases emerging talent and innovative 3v3 play, bridging competitive excitement with skill development. The league’s growth not only boosts fan engagement but also pushes the sport’s boundaries, potentially shaping future basketball formats.
