Before diving into the season ahead, a quick Thanksgiving note. This week is a moment to appreciate the community that surrounds this league. The athletes, coaches, staff, and fans who continue to build something meaningful together. Gratitude is not just a feeling here. It is a practice.
That foundation sets the stage for two of the most compelling voices shaping Unrivaled this season. Phantom BC head coach Roneeka Hodges and Lunar Owls BC head coach DJ Sackmann shared insights that reveal how their clubs are preparing for a fast, high IQ, and emotionally charged style of play.
For Hodges, Phantom BC begins with empowerment. She zeroes in on Dana Evans with complete clarity. “She can score the ball,” Hodges says. “With the space she will have, she is going to excel. My goal is to allow them to be who they are. They are on this level for a reason.”
Her team culture stands on three pillars: competitiveness, camaraderie, and fun. Each one plays a vital role in keeping the team grounded and energized. “It is hard work, but basketball should also be fun,” Hodges says. “We should enjoy it.”
The 3 on 3 format highlights pace, and Phantom BC plans to use that to its advantage. An up tempo approach, guided by the instincts of Kelsey Plum and Dana Evans, will allow the team to stretch defenses and create scoring windows while still understanding when to slow the game down.
On the other side of the league, DJ Sackmann is building upon the success of the Lunar Owls with a roster that fits their identity perfectly. “If this is a scoring game, we need shooters on the floor at all times,” he says. The team will continue to play fast, stay disciplined, and pressure the basketball.
The additions of Marina Mabrey, Rachel Banham, and Rebecca Allen bring elite shooting and versatile decision making. “You are going to get open shots in this game,” Sackmann says. “These women are unbelievably talented. This environment lets them showcase that.”
One of the strongest forces behind the Lunar Owls is Skylar Diggins, whose discipline shaped last season. “We did not miss a session,” Sackmann says. “Not the weight room. Not recovery. Not practice. Skylar made sure we checked every box.”
As Unrivaled prepares for another season, Phantom BC and the Lunar Owls remind us what this league stands for. Identity. Intention. Skill. Culture. And the belief that when athletes are given space, trust, and visibility, they do more than compete. They thrive.
These two clubs are ready to show what excellence looks like, both on the floor and in the way they carry themselves as leaders of the game.
