Imagine being at the peak of your game, only to be sidelined by injury—it’s every athlete’s nightmare. Yet, that’s exactly where WNBA sensation Angel Reese finds herself as the 2026 season of Unrivaled kicks off without her. But here’s where it gets emotional: despite her absence, Reese’s five-word response to a fan’s highlight reel—“ugh, I kinda miss it 😢”—has reignited conversations about her impact on the league and her own journey to recovery.
The second season of Unrivaled, which began on January 5, boasts a star-studded lineup of WNBA greats like Breanna Stewart, Napheesa Collier, Kelsey Plum, Paige Bueckers, Skylar Diggins-Smith, Rhyne Howard, and Kahleah Copper. However, Reese’s absence is notable. The Chicago Sky forward, known for her explosive talent, is still recuperating from a back injury that sidelined her for 14 games last season. And this is the part most people miss: while her absence is a blow to the league, it’s a strategic move for her long-term career, especially after the Sky’s challenging 10-34 season.
Reese’s stats speak volumes—averaging 14.7 points, 12.6 rebounds, 3.7 assists, and 1.5 blocks per game last season—but her influence extends far beyond the court. Even while recovering, her popularity remains unmatched, with fans clamoring for her return. Unrivaled, founded by Stewart and Collier, was designed to give players like Reese a chance to earn offseason income without the grueling overseas commitments, addressing the WNBA’s salary disparities. With reported revenues of $30 million in its inaugural season and six-figure salaries for top players, it’s a game-changer—but is it worth risking long-term health for short-term gains? That’s the controversial question Reese’s decision forces us to consider.
While Reese could have earned significantly more by joining Unrivaled, her financial stability is already secured through endorsement deals and high-profile gigs like walking in the Victoria’s Secret fashion show. Still, her absence raises a thought-provoking point: Should leagues like Unrivaled prioritize player health over financial incentives, or is the risk worth the reward?
For now, Unrivaled continues to thrive, expanding to eight teams this season with the addition of the Breeze and Hive. Games air on TNT, truTV, and HBO Max, ensuring fans don’t miss a moment of the action. Meanwhile, a reserve pool of six WNBA players stands ready to fill in for injured stars, ensuring the league’s talent pool remains deep. But as we watch this season unfold, one question lingers: When will Angel Reese return, and how will her absence shape the future of Unrivaled? Let us know your thoughts in the comments—do you think Reese made the right call, or should she have taken the risk to join the league?
