Athletes Unlimited is making room on Broadway as it returns to Nashville on February 4th for its fifth season. The league unveiled its complete roster of players and coaches on January 15th in preparation for the upcoming season.
The players set to compete include Ariel Atkins, Sarah Ashley Barker, Kierstan Bell, Grace Berger, Lexi Brown, Emma Cannon, Tina Charles, Caitlin Chen, Alisha Clark, Alaina Coates, Gia Cook, Mackenzie Forbes, Rebecca Gardner, Aubrianna “Brie” Hall, Rebecca Harris, Dori Harrison, Isabel Harrison, Bria Hartley, Air Hearn, Sequoia Homes, Deja Kelly, Jojo Lacey, Kiara Leslie, Natasha Mack, Aneesa Morrow, Tiana Muldrow, Kia Nurse, Aaliyah Nye, Gray Radio, Shay Pedi, Aerial Powers, Mercedes Russell, Jaycee Sheldon, Jaylin Sherrod, Odyssey Sims, Narissa Smith, Kia Stokes, Asia Taylor, Kayanna Trailer, and Brianna Turner.
Megan Perry, vice president of Basketball for Athletes Unlimited, commented that the roster embodies elite competition and meaningful opportunities, emphasizing the exceptional depth of talent among the 40 players. She highlighted that this promises to be one of the best and most competitive seasons yet.
Additionally, the coaching lineup for 2026 was announced, featuring Zach Buncik, Ednisha Curry, Chaz Franklin, and Kia Vaughn, with Dee Brown serving as the player development specialist.
Five notable players to watch this season include:
– Tina Charles, who has made a strong comeback in Atlanta and Connecticut and will bring veteran experience to AU.
– Aneesa Morrow, whose transfer to AU is seen as a perfect fit for her evolving game as she heads into her second professional season.
– Gray Radio, who chose AU over Unrivaled to focus on improving her defense while showcasing her shooting skills.
– Odyssey Sims, a strong offensive asset and dark horse contender for the AU Championship, who continues to prove her value.
– Jaycee Sheldon, aiming to expand her role beyond defense and offense creation as she develops with AU.
Fan Take: This roster release signals a thrilling season ahead for Athletes Unlimited and WNBA fans alike, blending seasoned veterans with rising stars. It’s a pivotal moment that highlights the growing depth and competitiveness in women’s professional basketball, promising to elevate the sport’s profile even further.
