Unrivaled, in just its inaugural season, has already given fans some jaw-dropping basketball moments, electrifying plays, and nonstop entertainment. As much as it’s helping players grow and develop, its format is also bringing out the best show for fans. And now, adding to its long list of attractions is the highly anticipated 1-on-1 tournament.

With $350,000 on the line, the competition is fierce. Eight first-round games tipped off on Monday night, setting the stage for some thrilling matchups. The second round and quarterfinals follow on Tuesday, with the semifinals and final showdown going down on Friday. 

The champion will walk away with a whopping $200,000, the runner-up pockets $50,000, and the semifinalists take home $25,000 each. Oh, and in a sweet bonus, each club teammate of the winner will also get $10,000.

Now, let’s talk about the action from round one. Napheesa Collier outlasted Katie Lou Samuelson in a battle of UConn alumni, winning 12-6. Kahleah Copper showed out against Aliyah Boston, securing an 11-6 victory. Rhyne Howard took care of business against Lexie Hull, winning 12-7. But the one that had everyone talking? Chelsea Gray vs. Shakira Austin.

It was the seasoned Point GAWD versus the young hooper. Chelsea Gray, a three-time WNBA champ and the 2022 Finals MVP, was expected to dominate with her elite playmaking and shooting. She averages 16.1 points a game in Unrivaled, while Austin sits at 6.6. ‘

But guess what? The size advantage mattered. Austin played tight defense, used her length, and completely shut down Gray. The final score? 12-2 in favor of Shakira Austin. And, obviously, the internet had a field day. 

Fans couldn’t believe their eyes—how did a seasoned vet like Gray get bounced like that? Some thought it unacceptable. Others backed her up, considering the height advantage thing. 

“Point Gawd” No More? Chelsea Gray’s Shocking Unrivaled 1v1 Exit Has Fans Talking

They called her the Point Gawd. Now, not so much.

“Point Gawd, they said,” one wrote. Chelsea Gray has been that player—the one with the flashy passes, the ice-cold clutch moments, and the ability to completely take over a game. Candace Parker herself blessed her with the nickname, and for a good reason. But after this one? Yeah, people aren’t so sure anymore. Some are questioning if the title still holds up.

And then there’s the crowd saying, “That’s no upset. Gray is one of the most overhyped players in the W.” Ouch. While a few were shocked, others clearly saw this coming from a mile away.

But look, the 2024 season wasn’t all smooth sailing for Gray. She missed a chunk of it with a foot injury but came back swinging—delivering in the playoffs, proving she still had it. So, calling her overhyped? That’s definitely up for debate.

Obviously, there’s always that one comment that brings up age—“Chelsea is old.” 32 to Shakira’s 24, so yes, there’s a bit of an age gap, but Gray hasn’t lost it all, evident from her stats this off-season.

Then there’s the size talk. “This girl too damn big for Point Gawd.” Austin at 6’5″ and Gray at 5’11″—that’s a big difference, no doubt. That kind of height advantage is no joke, especially in a one-on-one setting where size plays a major role. But Gray has been handling bigger players her whole career.

Another added, “Expected a fight lol.” Yes, people were expecting a close battle, especially given Gray’s experience and skill. But the way it played out? Not exactly what some had in mind. When you put experience against athleticism, you hope for a thriller, but the final outcome left some fans feeling a little underwhelmed.

Finally, the real ones had to remind everyone—“Chelsea isn’t an iso player. They call her Point Gawd for a reason. In a team setting, she thrives. Chill out with all that.” And honestly, They have a point. She’s at her best orchestrating plays. If you’ve watched her game, you know she shines when she’s facilitating her teammates up. The numbers speak for themselves.

But one thing is for sure—this one-on-one action is only getting more intense as it progresses. So let’s see who finally clinches it at the end.