No. 4: Flame BC
Head Coach: Teresa Weatherspoon
Roster: Aliyah Boston (Fever), Rae Burrell (Sparks), Jordin Canada (Dream), Dearica Hamby (Sparks), Rhyne Howard (Dream), Arike Ogunbowale (Wings)
What to like: Transition attacks
The speed in the backcourt with Ogunbowale and Canada is a standout, complemented by the willingness of Howard and Burrell to run hard in transition. Hamby’s grab-and-go ability and Boston’s end-to-end sprints provide dynamic options in fast-break scenarios.
Something to keep an eye on: Aliyah Boston’s usage
Boston’s passing and handling skills are key areas to watch. This setting offers her a chance to refine these aspects, potentially making her a versatile offensive threat.
Lineup to watch for: Arike Ogunbowale, Rhyne Howard, Dearica Hamby
Their three-on-three experience should allow them to adapt quickly. Ogunbowale’s shot-creating abilities, combined with Howard and Hamby’s complementary skills, make this trio a potent scoring unit.
No. 3: Phoenix BC
Head Coach: Nola Henry
Roster: Kahleah Copper (Mercury), Chelsea Gray (Aces), Lexie Hull (Fever), Angel Reese (Sky), Azurá Stevens (Sparks), Brittney Sykes (Mystics)
What to like: Competitive fire
The intensity of Copper, Gray, and Reese is notable. Sykes and Hull’s defensive prowess adds a layer of toughness, while Stevens’ versatility rounds out a competitive squad.
Something to keep an eye on: Angel Reese’s development
Reese’s growth in handling switches and leveraging the offensive setups led by Copper and Gray will be critical. Her progression in this environment can offer insights into her upcoming WNBA season.
Lineup to watch for: Chelsea Gray, Kahleah Copper, Azurá Stevens
This traditional 1-3-5 lineup offers strategic versatility. Stevens’ perimeter playmaking can create space for Gray and Copper to exploit inside the arc.
No. 2: Laces BC
Head Coach: DJ Sackmann
Roster: Stefanie Dolson (Mystics), Tiffany Hayes (Aces*), Kate Martin (Valkyries), Kayla McBride (Lynx), Alyssa Thomas (Sun*), Jackie Young (Aces)
What to like: Off-ball work
Dolson and Thomas’ ability to operate as offensive hubs will be crucial. The off-ball movement from Young, McBride, Hayes, and Martin ensures constant pressure on defenses through cuts and slips.
Something to keep an eye on: Kate Martin’s on-ball growth
Martin’s potential in expanding her offensive role will be an intriguing development. Increased ball-handling responsibilities could showcase her readiness for more prominent roles in future seasons.
Lineup to watch for: Jackie Young, Tiffany Hayes, Alyssa Thomas
This trio’s driving capability makes them a nightmare for defenses. Thomas’ physicality, combined with Young and Hayes’ slashing ability, creates relentless rim pressure.
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No. 1: Skyhawks BC
Head Coach: Jewel Lloyd
Roster: Aaliyah Edwards (Mystics), Rickea Jackson (Sparks), Jewell Loyd (Storm), Breanna Stewart (Liberty), Courtney Vandersloot (Liberty), Sabrina Ionescu (Liberty)
What to like: Star power
With a roster featuring Loyd, Stewart, and Ionescu, the Skyhawks have the most star-studded lineup. Vandersloot’s playmaking complements the scoring prowess of Loyd and Stewart, while Edwards and Jackson add depth and versatility.
Something to keep an eye on: Team chemistry
While individual talent is abundant, the key will be how well these stars mesh on the court. Effective collaboration will determine their success in the fast-paced, three-on-three format.
Lineup to watch for: Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart, Jewell Loyd
This lineup combines scoring, playmaking, and versatility. Ionescu’s court vision, Stewart’s scoring ability, and Loyd’s two-way prowess make them a formidable trio capable of dominating both ends of the court.
With the tip-off just around the corner, these power rankings offer a glimpse into the potential storylines and standout performances that could shape the inaugural season of Unrivaled.
