Collier's Big Win: A New Era for Women's Basketball

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Napheesa Collier, a standout player from the Minnesota Lynx, secured a massive $200, 000 prize by winning the Unrivaled 1-on-1 tournament. This victory marked a historic moment, as it was the largest single-day payout in women's basketball history. Collier's triumph wasn't just about the money; it was a testament to the growing opportunities for WNBA players to earn significant income during the offseason. The Unrivaled tournament, a 3-on-3 league co-founded by Collier and Breanna Stewart, offers WNBA players a chance to compete and earn substantial salaries. This is a game-changer for many players who traditionally had to play overseas to supplement their income. The average salary during the eight-week season is over $220, 000, which is close to the maximum base salary in the WNBA. Collier, who was the top seed in the 30-player tournament, defeated Aaliyah Edwards, the eighth seed, in a best-of-three series. The matches were intense, with each game played to a winning score of 8. Edwards showed remarkable resilience, coming from behind to win the first game, but Collier's dominance in the final two games secured her victory. Collier's teammates on the Lunar Owls each received $10, 000 from the $350, 000 prize pool, while Edwards earned $50, 000 for reaching the final. Collier's journey to the championship was impressive, with notable wins over Azura Stevens and Rickea Jackson. Her defensive prowess and scoring ability were on full display, making her a formidable opponent throughout the tournament. The tournament highlighted the physicality and intensity of the matches, which left many players exhausted. Collier suggested that this could be addressed in future events. She also expressed her desire to see a similar event for NBA players, emphasizing the courage and vulnerability required to compete. Edwards, who plays for the Mystics, showcased her skills and hard work, earning respect from her peers. Her journey to the final included impressive wins over top-seeded players like Arike Ogunbowale and Breanna Stewart. Despite her loss in the final, Edwards' performance was a testament to her dedication and improvement. The Unrivaled tournament not only provided a platform for players to earn significant income but also aimed to change the perception of women's basketball. Collier hopes to see more casual, backyard-style games, similar to what is commonly seen among men. This could help create a more relaxed and enjoyable atmosphere for the sport. The tournament's structure included single-elimination rounds up to the finals, with each game played to a winning score of 11. Traditional scoring rules applied, with baskets worth either two or three points. Players like Ogunbowale and Stevens, who reached the semifinals, each won $25, 000. Collier's victory and the overall success of the tournament underscore the growing opportunities and recognition for women's basketball. It's a step forward in providing more lucrative and competitive platforms for female athletes.