Unrivaled Power Rankings: Paige Bueckers and the Breeze are making a statement
Unrivaled League's First Week: A Physical, Competitive, and Exciting Start
As the first week of play in the Unrivaled League comes to a close, we've gotten our first taste of each squad's potential. This week proved that the league is physical, competitive, and exciting, with players setting new records for blocks and points in a game. Now, let's dive into the rankings based on what we've witnessed so far.
- Lunar Owls BC:
Unfortunately, the Lunar Owls are struggling without Napheesa Collier and Skylar Diggins. They're currently 0-2, and it's clear they need help. Marina Mabrey and Aaliyah Edwards are running the team, but Skylar Diggins' return to the lineup soon could help them find some rhythm.
- Hive BC:
While Hive has yet to win a game, their roster is promising. With more time together, they could become a successful unit. Their defense is showing potential, especially with Saniya Rivers' impressive 6 blocks in a game.
- Vinyl BC:
Vinyl opened the season with two losses, but their performance against Rose BC was promising. Dearica Hamby's record-setting 40 points in their win against Hive shows promise. We just need to see more execution.
- Laces BC:
Laces held Vinyl's stars back in the opener, which was impressive. They also held their own against the Mist, losing by only 2 points. Brittney Sykes, Jackie Young, and Alyssa Thomas could become a lethal trio as the season progresses.
- Phantom BC:
Despite being 1-1, Phantom is impressive. Each of their five members averaging 10+ points per game. Their season-opener against Breeze BC was close, and Kelsey Plum's 38 points in their recent matchup against Lunar Owls showcase their depth.
- Mist BC:
Mist is still undefeated, but they have more to prove. Their first matchup was dominant, but their second against Laces was closer. Allisha Gray and Breanna Stewart's 20+ points each show their potential. We'll wait to see how they fare against top dogs like Rose BC.
- Breeze BC:
Breeze BC has impressed at 2-1. This young squad enters every game with a chip on their shoulder, wanting to prove that being underestimated because of their age is a mistake. Paige Bueckers leads the squad, averaging 18.3 points and 7 assists per game. Dominique Malonga and Rickea Jackson average 17.3 points per game, and Cameron Brink and Kate Martin have been putting in work off the bench. Their only loss was against Rose BC, a back-and-forth game that could've gone either way.
- Rose BC:
No one is doing it like Chelsea Gray and Rose BC right now. At 3-0, they're quickly becoming favorites to win the championship again. They've had close games, but remain calm under pressure. Gray leads the league, averaging 31.7 points per game, and no one has been able to stop her. It will take a significant shift in energy and production for anyone to top this Rose team.
Controversy & Comment Hooks:
- Lunar Owls' struggles: Are they struggling because of their young roster, or is it a matter of strategy and execution? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments.
- Hive's potential: Do you think Hive BC can turn things around and become a force to be reckoned with? Or are they still a work in progress? Let us know your thoughts!
- Vinyl's promise: Is Dearica Hamby's record-setting performance a sign of things to come for Vinyl BC? Or was it a one-off? Share your thoughts in the comments.
