The second season of Unrivaled is set to be a blockbuster, with major roster shakeups and the highly anticipated debut of Paige Bueckers. This unique league, co-founded by WNBA stars, continues to draw top talent and generate buzz with its innovative format. As Liberty teammates Breanna Stewart and Natasha Cloud find themselves on opposing squads, and rising star Paige Bueckers prepares to hit the court, the upcoming season promises fierce competition and must-see moments.
This article breaks down the key storylines, roster highlights, and what to expect as Unrivaled tips off its second year. We’ll dive into the split between Stewart and Cloud, spotlight newcomers like Bueckers and Dominique Malonga, and examine the league’s continued growth and impact on women’s basketball.
Liberty Stars Divided: Stewart and Cloud on Opposing Sides
One of the most compelling narratives heading into the new Unrivaled season is the friendly rivalry between New York Liberty stars Breanna Stewart and Natasha Cloud. Last season, these teammates played together in Unrivaled, but this year, they’ll be facing off on different squads. Stewart, a co-founder of Unrivaled, returns to Mist BC, while Cloud will represent Phantom BC. This sets the stage for some intense matchups between two of the WNBA’s elite players.
As reported by the New York Post, “In a classic friend-to-foe arc, Stewart and Cloud will once again be suiting up for their different teams at Unrivaled.” This split adds an extra layer of intrigue for fans, as they’ll get to see these teammates battle it out in a different competitive environment. Expect fireworks when Mist BC and Phantom BC hit the court against each other.
Paige Bueckers Set to Make Highly Anticipated Unrivaled Debut
All eyes will be on Paige Bueckers as she makes her Unrivaled debut this season. The No. 1 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft is joining the league with high expectations. Bueckers, known for her scoring ability and playmaking skills, is poised to make an immediate impact on the Unrivaled landscape. She will be playing for Breeze, a team that also includes other exciting talents like Rickea Jackson and Cameron Brink.
Cameron Brink, who missed the inaugural season due to injury, is also expected to debut this season alongside Bueckers. With these two highly touted rookies joining the ranks, Breeze is shaping up to be a formidable contender. “There are several newcomers for this season, including Paige Bueckers and Dominique Malonga… Cameron Brink… is also expected to make her Unrivaled debut this season,” according to the New York Post. The combination of Bueckers’ offensive prowess and Brink’s defensive presence could make Breeze a tough team to beat.
Other Key Newcomers and Roster Highlights
While Bueckers and Brink are generating significant buzz, several other newcomers and roster highlights are worth noting. Dominique Malonga, the No. 2 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft, is another exciting addition to the Unrivaled league. She will also be playing for Breeze, further solidifying the team’s status as a contender. In addition to the rookies, several established WNBA stars are returning to Unrivaled, including Kelsey Mitchell, Jackie Young, and Skylar Diggins.
Here’s a rundown of each team and their key players:
- Breeze: Paige Bueckers, Rickea Jackson, Dominique Malonga, Cameron Brink
- Hive: Kelsey Mitchell, Sonia Citron, Ezi Magbegor
- Laces: Jackie Young, Brittney Sykes, Alyssa Thomas
- Lunar Owls: Skylar Diggins, Marina Mabrey, Napheesa Collier
- Mist: Allisha Gray, Breanna Stewart, Alanna Smith
- Phantom: Kelsey Plum, Satou Sabally, Aliyah Boston
- Rose: Chelsea Gray, Kahleah Copper, Azurá Stevens
- Vinyl: Courtney Williams, Rhyne Howard, Dearica Hamby
Sabrina Ionescu’s Absence and Roster Changes
While many familiar faces are returning to Unrivaled, one notable absence is Sabrina Ionescu. The Liberty star played for Cloud’s team last season, but she will not be participating in the upcoming season. This leaves a void in the Phantom BC roster and creates an opportunity for other players to step up and fill her role. The reasons for Ionescu’s absence have not been specified, but it’s clear that her absence will be felt by her team and the league as a whole.
As the New York Post notes, “Unlike last season, though, Cloud won’t be sharing the floor with Sabrina Ionescu…” This change in personnel is just one of many that make the upcoming Unrivaled season so intriguing. With new faces and shifting alliances, the league is constantly evolving and offering fresh storylines for fans to follow.
Unrivaled’s Quick Expansion and Future Outlook
The Unrivaled league is experiencing rapid growth and expansion. In September 2025, it was announced that the league would be adding two more teams and 12 new roster spots, a quicker-than-expected move. This expansion demonstrates the growing interest in women’s basketball and the unique appeal of the Unrivaled format. With its innovative rules, top-tier talent, and engaging storylines, Unrivaled is poised to become an increasingly influential force in the world of sports.
As the New York Post reported, “Unrivaled adding two more teams, 12 new roster spots in quicker-than-expected expansion.” This expansion not only provides more opportunities for players but also enhances the league’s visibility and reach. With a growing fanbase and a commitment to innovation, Unrivaled is shaping the future of women’s basketball.
The second season of Unrivaled is shaping up to be a thrilling showcase of talent, competition, and innovation in women’s basketball. With Liberty stars finding themselves on opposing sides, Paige Bueckers making her highly anticipated debut, and the league experiencing rapid expansion, there’s no shortage of compelling storylines to follow. Unrivaled is changing the game and paving the way for a brighter future for women’s sports.
As the league continues to grow and evolve, it will be fascinating to see how the players, teams, and format continue to develop. One thing is certain: Unrivaled is a force to be reckoned with, and its impact on women’s basketball will only continue to grow in the years to come. Be sure to tune in on January 5th to witness the start of what promises to be an unforgettable season.
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