Unrivaled: Laces vs. Hive Prediction, 02/17/2026
Get ready for an intense showdown as the Laces and the Hive face off in the Unrivaled tournament! With the playoff race heating up, all eyes are on the upcoming match between these two teams. On Tuesday, the Laces will host the Hive at 7:30 p.m. ET, and it's shaping up to be a thrilling contest.
The Laces are the clear favorites, riding a wave of momentum with back-to-back wins and a strong showing in the one-on-one tournament. They're currently the underdogs to win the Unrivaled Championship, with odds of +250. While no player on the Laces roster averages 20+ points per game, their strength lies in their depth. They boast the third-highest scoring average in the league at 71.9 points per game, and in their last game, all five players contributed double-digit points in a 74-70 victory over the Lunar Owls.
Let's shine a spotlight on the star players. Brittney Sykes, the reigning Unrivaled champion, has been exceptional, averaging 18.9 points per game and consistently hitting double figures. Her defensive prowess is equally impressive, leading the league with 1.6 steals per game. Jackie Young's scoring ability and playmaking skills, coupled with Alyssa Thomas' physicality and rebounding prowess, make the Laces a well-rounded and formidable force.
Now, let's turn our attention to the Hive. They've struggled to find consistency this season, ranking last in points, rebounds, and assists. Their offense has been stagnant, and the lack of cohesion is evident in their numbers. However, there's a silver lining: the Hive excel in rim protection, leading the league with 3.8 blocks per game, providing a solid defensive foundation.
The Hive's scoring is led by Kelsey Mitchell, Monique Billings, and Sonia Citron, each averaging 14.5+ points per game. However, they lack a true game-changer who can consistently create scoring opportunities or control the game's flow in the final moments. This becomes a significant concern when facing a Laces team capable of multiple double-digit scorers.
Prediction and Pick: The Laces are the clear favorites, and I'm confident in their ability to maintain their hot streak. They have the depth, scoring prowess, and defensive strength to secure a victory over the Hive.
Best Bet: Laces -6.5 (-120)
