It took just one game for Chelsea Gray to firmly assert her undeniable prowess in the world of Unrivaled basketball.
Chelsea Gray's journey over the past year has been nothing short of exhilarating. She not only shone as a key player for Rose BC, leading them to clinch their inaugural championship while earning the Finals MVP title, but she also secured her third WNBA championship with the Aces, marking her fourth overall in her career.
As 2026 unfolds, Gray is already making waves once more. She kicked off her second season in Unrivaled by guiding her team to a resounding victory, sending a clear message: despite being one of the veteran stars in the league, she possesses all the qualities necessary to claim the title of the best player in Unrivaled this season. With Napheesa Collier sidelined, the competition for that coveted title remains wide open.
In a thrilling match against the Lunar Owls, Chelsea Gray showcased her exceptional skills. Last season, she was the standout player on Rose’s roster, and she has reaffirmed that status while positioning herself among the elite players in the league once again.
Gray played a pivotal role in securing an 80-60 victory over the undermanned Lunar Owls, contributing an impressive 35 points, alongside 5 rebounds, 8 assists, and 3 steals, all achieved in just 21.5 minutes of play. Her scoring performance not only led the game but also represented the highest individual score across all four matches played so far. Furthermore, her shooting efficiency was remarkable—she hit 5 out of 10 attempts from beyond the arc and converted 14 out of 20 shots overall.
However, Gray’s abilities extend far beyond mere scoring. Her renowned playmaking talent was evident throughout the game; she executed no-look passes with precision, delivered daring bounce passes through traffic, and consistently set her teammates up for success. The synergy she shares with her teammates, particularly in pick-and-roll scenarios with Azurá Stevens and Shakira Austin, creates a dynamic that is nearly impossible for opponents to defend. If either of the bigs finds themselves open, Gray will undoubtedly make the pass. Conversely, if they are closely guarded, she can effortlessly score on her own, whether from long range, mid-range, or in the paint.
On the defensive end, Gray made a significant impact as well. Despite her position as a guard, she possesses the unique ability to effectively guard larger players, leveraging her strength and quick hands to her advantage. This skill is crucial in the fast-paced Unrivaled league, which favors versatile two-way players capable of handling mismatches defensively.
If she maintains the level of play exhibited in her season opener, Chelsea Gray will not only cement her reputation as one of the top players in the league but may also steer her team toward a consecutive championship victory.
But Chelsea Gray isn’t the only player who made a strong impression in the first game of the season. Allisha Gray also had a stellar outing, recording 21 points, 9 rebounds, 3 assists, and 2 steals against Hive BC, signaling her readiness to compete with Chelsea Gray for the title of the league's best player. Additionally, as Breeze’s young roster gains more experience and confidence, Paige Bueckers could very well enter the conversation for the top spot.
