After Napheesa Collier’s injury, the Unrivalled 1-on-1 competition is certain to have a new winner. While there are many exciting matchups in the 1-on-1 tournament for the fans, all eyes were on one key battle: Aliyah Boston vs Alyssa Thomas.
Both talented and consistent performers shone in the 2025 season and continued their form in the 3-on-3 tournament, too. AB led her side to second place in the standings while AT put the Laces on the top. With playoff qualification already secured, both players would have played with confidence. But at the last moment, Mercury star pulled out of the contest and fans reacted to the same on social media.
Fan Reacts To Alyssa Thomas’ Withdrawal Against Aliyah Boston
Every WNBA star on the Unrivaled was excited to see two top forwards going against each other in a one-on-one matchup. For fans, it was a thrilling game for Boston; it was a chance to cement elite status through the Unrivaled 1-on-1 matchup against Thomas.
Incidentally, the veteran forward withdrew from the competition. The league didn’t specify the reason for her absence. Importantly, she didn’t play in the last season 1-on-1 competition, also backing out of the match-up against Azura Stevens due to injury.
Updated Bracket ➡️ Our 1on1 Tournament presented by @Sprite starts tomorrow on truTV 🍿Make sure you head over to our website and fill out your bracket. pic.twitter.com/2Ec3HKYH09
— Unrivaled Basketball (@Unrivaledwbb) February 11, 2026
While fans were backing AB for the game, looking at Thomas’ decision, they quickly reacted with comments trolling the veteran forward.
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One fan wrote, “Alyssa Thomas (scared) is out.”
Alyssa Thomas (scared) is out
— Corbomite Maneuver (@doctorcorbomite) February 11, 2026
Another fan mentioned, “What happened to AT? Was she too worried about AB beating her? Disappointing.”
What happened to AT? Was she too worried about AB beating her? Disappointing, ngl.
— Caitlin Sutherland (@TooManyCatS1210) February 11, 2026
Other fans said, “rip cinema that would have been the AB-AT matchup.”
rip cinema that would have been the AB-AT matchup
— let’s go smesko (@dreamatlantaw) February 11, 2026
One fan mentioned, “AT a coward?”
AT a coward?😂The only matchup (along with Kels vs Court😂 ) that I was excited about. . Also thoughts and prayers to Rickea. Sending her much love.
— Lenny 🇱🇧❤️🔥🧡 (@lynnramadan3) February 11, 2026
A fan wrote, “AT ducking that AB smoke huh?”
AT ducking that AB smoke huh? 😂
— tek 👾 (@baby22goat) February 11, 2026
Boston’s current stat line certainly backs fans’ claims, and it would not only be a great sign for Phantom BC but also for the Indiana Fever.
Aliyah Boston’s Blistering, Unrivaled Form Would Be Encouraging Forthe Indiana Fever
Playing in the final year of her rookie contract, the former South Carolina star could be a major deciding factor in many games. Boston and Caitlin Clark’s combination made a huge impact in the 2024 season, and in 2025, the forward carried multiple roles in CC’s absence.
Knowing how Boston cried out in her first season with the Fever, she will look to make the most of the opportunity to win a championship. Her recent form in Unrivaled also highlights the improvements in her game as she leads the league in blocks, double-doubles and has been an explosive scorer for the side.
Aliyah Boston heating up with Team Phantom 👻🔥
— Indiana Fever (@IndianaFever) February 9, 2026
after 10 games, she’s averaging a double-double and leading the league with 1.8 BPG. pic.twitter.com/kASNXlTsBO
As much as fans were eager to see her going against Alyssa Thomas, they are more excited to watch the AB-CC combination on the floor once again.