Get ready for the ultimate showdown! The Unrivaled 1-on-1 tournament is here, and the stakes are higher than ever. But here’s where it gets controversial: who are the real favorites to take home the $200,000 grand prize? With 32 of the best players battling it out starting Wednesday at 7:30 PM ET, the hype has been building since before the Unrivaled season even began. Fans have already weighed in, shaping the bracket through their votes, and the matchups are nothing short of electrifying. From first-round upsets to potential Cinderella stories, this tournament promises drama at every turn. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just about skill—stamina, strategy, and mental toughness will be the real game-changers. Let’s dive into our ranking of the 10 biggest favorites, but don’t be surprised if some names spark debate. After all, in a tournament this fierce, anything can happen.
10. Shakira Austin
Shakira Austin has been on a tear lately, proving she’s a force to be reckoned with just in time for the tournament. Her 31-point, 11-rebound performance in January was a statement, and her 20.6 points per game in February show she’s hitting her stride. But here’s the catch: she opens against Dearica Hamby, a tough opponent who could exploit her weaknesses. If she advances, she’ll likely face another powerhouse like Aaliyah Edwards or Dom Malonga. Austin’s rebounding prowess will be her lifeline, but can it carry her through?
9. Rhyne Howard
Rhyne Howard is a sharpshooter with a killer three-point game, but her first-round matchup against teammate Rae Burrell could be her toughest test yet. Burrell’s dominance in the paint means Howard will need to rely on her long-range accuracy—something she’s more than capable of, as seen in her recent 4-of-8 three-point performance. Still, defense will be key, and Burrell won’t make it easy. Is Howard’s offense enough to outweigh Burrell’s all-around game?
8. Aliyah Boston
Stamina will be the name of the game for Aliyah Boston, who faces Alyssa Thomas in what could be the most physically demanding first-round matchup. Boston’s dominance in the paint (19.9 points per game) is undeniable, but can she maintain her energy if she advances? Her ability to keep momentum could be the difference between a favorite and an early exit. But here’s the question: can Boston’s strength overcome Thomas’s relentless style?
7. Allisha Gray
Allisha Gray’s three-point shooting is her superpower, but her recent slump (13% from the floor in two games) raises concerns. Her bounce-back performance against Rose BC (7-of-10 shooting, 3 threes) was promising, but can she sustain that level? Her first-round opponent, Saniya Rivers, is no pushover, with defensive skills that could disrupt Gray’s rhythm. Will Gray’s hot hand return, or will Rivers cool her off?
6. Kelsey Plum
Kelsey Plum’s three-point prowess (2.6 per game) makes her a threat, but her path won’t be easy. A potential second-round matchup against Skylar Diggins could expose her reliance on long-range shooting. However, Plum’s all-around game, highlighted by her 30-point performance and game-winning layup, proves she’s more than just a shooter. Is Plum’s versatility enough to make her a top contender?
5. Breanna Stewart
Breanna Stewart has a point to prove after last year’s first-round exit. With averages of 19.7 points and 8.0 rebounds per game, she’s playing with a chip on her shoulder. As a No. 1 seed, she’s a clear favorite early on, but can she avoid another upset? Will Stewart’s aggression pay off, or will it backfire?
4. Marina Mabrey
Marina Mabrey is a scoring machine, leading the league with 26.8 points and 3.8 threes per game. Her first-round opponent, Sonia Citron, is no slouch, and a potential second-round clash with Rhyne Howard could be epic. Mabrey’s defense is often underrated, but it might be her secret weapon. Can Mabrey’s all-around game carry her to the top, or will her opponents expose her weaknesses?
3. Paige Bueckers
Paige Bueckers is the fan favorite for a reason: her efficiency, entertainment value, and craftiness make her a joy to watch. While her 6.7 assists per game won’t help here, her ability to score from anywhere is unmatched. Her improved defense will be crucial, but can she balance it with her offensive prowess? Is Bueckers the complete package, or will her selfless nature hold her back?
2. Chelsea Gray
Chelsea Gray has been a standout all season, averaging 25.1 points and 3.2 threes per game. Her first-round opponent, Natasha Cloud, is speedy and defensive-minded, but Gray’s clutch shooting could be the difference. When she gets hot, the basket seems to expand—but will it be enough? Can Gray’s shooting overcome Cloud’s defense, or will she falter under pressure?
1. Aaliyah Edwards
Aaliyah Edwards is the only player here with tournament experience, having reached the final last year. With averages of 22.3 points and a league-leading 13.6 rebounds per game, she’s a dominant force. Without Napheesa Collier in her way this year, the $200,000 prize seems within reach. But here’s the controversial take: is Edwards a lock for the win, or will someone else rise to the challenge?
This tournament is anyone’s game, and the debates are just beginning. Who do you think will take it all? Let us know in the comments—we want to hear your take!
