Unrivaled is ramping up the stakes for its inaugural season, ensuring that players walk away feeling it was the best offseason they’ve ever had. As part of this effort, the league is introducing an exciting 1-on-1 tournament featuring 30 of the WNBA’s top players and a significant prize pool of $350,000. The competition, which will take place from February 10th to 14th, aims to determine the ultimate individual talent on the court. However, despite the high anticipation surrounding the event, several key players are notably absent from the lineup.
Missing Stars Raise Questions
While the official tournament bracket has been released, five well-known WNBA stars—Brittney Griner, Sabrina Ionescu, Angel Reese, Stefanie Dolson, and Courtney Vandersloot—are not included. The reasons behind their absence have not been confirmed, but their decision to sit out means they will miss out on what promises to be a highly competitive event.
Tournament Structure and Prize Distribution
Angel Reese will not participate in the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament.
The tournament will run from Feb. 10 to 14 with a $350K total prize pool.
Here are the four pods of 30 competing players: pic.twitter.com/LO7x0qqwmb
— Julia Poe (@byjuliapoe) January 28, 2025
The format of the 1-on-1 tournament is designed to create fast-paced, intense matchups. The games will follow a “make it, take it” style, where scoring allows a player to retain possession. Each contest will be played to 11 points with an 11-second shot clock, ensuring a fast and high-energy battle.
The prize pool is substantial, with the champion receiving $200,000. The runner-up will take home $50,000, while the two semifinalists will each earn $25,000. Additionally, every teammate of the tournament winner will be rewarded with $10,000, adding a unique team camaraderie element to the competition. Unrivaled’s CEO emphasized this aspect, noting that even eliminated players have a reason to support their teammates’ success.
Possible Reasons for Ionescu and Reese’s Absence
Sabrina Ionescu has been vocal about her reasons for skipping the event. She has indicated that Unrivaled is not her top priority, as she needs to focus on maintaining her physical and mental health during the offseason. Speaking with ESPN, she expressed concern about burning out before the WNBA season begins.
Another key factor in Ionescu’s decision is her recent surgery. She underwent a procedure to repair a torn UCL in her right thumb and, while cleared for basketball activities, she is still in the recovery process. During Unrivaled practices, she was seen wearing a wrap and later a splint on her shooting hand. Additionally, she left Miami for a follow-up appointment in Los Angeles, further emphasizing her focus on recovery.
Beyond health concerns, Ionescu may also be prioritizing another major basketball event. She is expected to participate in the NBA All-Star Weekend, scheduled for February 13-16 in San Francisco, her hometown.
As for Angel Reese, the exact reasons behind her absence remain unclear. Given that she is coming off a challenging rookie season and recovering from wrist surgery, she may also be prioritizing rest and preparation for the upcoming WNBA season.
A Tournament Filled with Elite Talent
Despite these notable absences, the competition still features an impressive lineup. Players like Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, and Kahleah Copper bring an exciting mix of skill, athleticism, and competitive fire to the event. Stewart, in particular, has expressed enthusiasm about proving her greatness in a one-on-one setting, adding an extra layer of intrigue to the tournament.
With its unique format, high stakes, and elite talent, the Unrivaled 1-on-1 competition is set to deliver thrilling basketball action. While some big names may be missing, the level of competition remains strong, ensuring that fans will witness intense battles as players fight for the title of the league’s best individual talent.