Paige Bueckers played just two games in the Unrivaled league, but she quickly highlighted the physicality and isolation plays in the 3-on-3 format. She even mentioned that the level of physicality in the Unrivaled league is higher than the ‘W’. But a WNBA insider found one similarity between the two leagues, and that is not a good sign.
With many instances as examples, inconsistency in the officiating was clearly visible. Cameron Brink received many such fouls, just like Angel Reese did in the WNBA.
Inconsistent Officiating In Unrivaled Drawing Comparison With WNBA
Season 2 of the Unrivalled League already had a lot of hype around it. Ahead of the start of the new season, Stephen Curry wore special shoes. Many fans were also excited after the first season’s success, but on the court, they saw a familiar problem that has plagued the WNBA – inconsistent officiating.
Cameron Brink entered the game in the first quarter and quickly received a foul for her defense on Kiki Iriafen. Front Office Sports reporter Annie Costabile pointed out the issue in the call and wrote, “One similarity between the WNBA & Unrivaled: officiating needs work.”
One similarity between the WNBA & Unrivaled: officiating needs work.
— Annie Costabile (@AnnieCostabile) January 11, 2026
Cameron Brink didn’t get a chance to show her defensive game as she received two quick fouls and had to take a seat. While Skylar Diggins highlighted that the WNBA should follow the Unrivaled model, on the court, the 3-on-3 league is now on the same route as the ‘W’.
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There is one more similarity between the WNBA and unrivaled, though, the vets ruling the courts.
WNBA Veterans Leading the Charge In Unrivaled League
The fast-paced game required young players to take over, and a few of them, like Paige Bueckers, did. But right from the start, veterans like Kelsey Plum, Chelsea Gray, Breanna Stewart, and Marina Mabrey were calling the plays for their sides.
Kelsey Plum set an Unrivaled record while Chelsea Gray remained a force on the floor, putting up a show for the fans, and won both games nearly single-handedly for the Rose BC. While defending champions got off to a flyer, Mist BC also had a strong start behind Stewie’s clutch plays.
Marina Mabry is another vet who shone for her side but ended up at the wrong end of the results. While fans appreciate veterans showing their experience on the court, they would love to see some consistency from the officials.