The WNBA’s electrifying Unrivaled 1-on-1 Tournament is down to the final four as a quartet of former UConn Huskies have clawed their way into the semifinals. In a star-studded battle for $200,000 and the ultimate bragging rights, Aaliyah Edwards, Napheesa Collier, Azura Stevens, and Arike Ogunbowale will face off in a epic display of individual basketball brilliance.
Edwards emerges as the tournament Cinderella
The biggest story so far has been the emergence of 8th-seeded Aaliyah Edwards. The second-year pro shocked the world in round one by shutting out No. 1 overall seed and WNBA superstar Breanna Stewart. Edwards then rode that momentum to an impressive quarterfinal win over Atlanta’s Allisha Gray.
“Shouldn’t be surprised. Played my first year in the league, now I’m tapping into myself and the confidence is showing and the work is showing,” a poised Edwards remarked after punching her ticket to the semifinals.
Aaliyah Edwards
Collier overpowers Unrivaled teammate Williams
In the quarterfinals, Napheesa Collier flexed her offensive versatility, utilizing an array of polished post moves and a reliable midrange jumper to defeat her Unrivaled and Minnesota Lynx teammate Courtney Williams by a score of 12-4. The former WNBA Rookie of the Year looks to be rounding into top form after missing most of 2022 on maternity leave.
Stevens, Ogunbowale round out final four
Rounding out the semifinals are two more ex-Huskies. Azura Stevens, quickly establishing herself as a go-to scorer for the Sparks this season, overpowered teammate Rae Burrell 12-2. Meanwhile, the always lethal Arike Ogunbowale outlasted former Dallas Wings running mate Satou Sabally in an offensive showcase, 12-8.
$200,000 on the line in semifinals
By advancing to the semifinals, all four competitors have locked up at least $25,000 each. But much more than just money is at stake on Friday night. Collier and Stevens, close friends from their UConn days, will battle head-to-head. On the other side of the bracket, Edwards looks to continue her Cinderella run against offensive juggernaut Ogunbowale.
The tournament will conclude with a best-of-three championship series, with the winner taking home the $200,000 grand prize and a lifetime of bragging rights. Will we see a nostalgic clash between the UConn legends, or will a new 1-on-1 queen be crowned? Tune in Friday to find out as these WNBA stars leave it all on the court in pursuit of 1-on-1 supremacy.
