Aziaha James quietly sent a strong message to the Wings and every Unrivaled team, showcasing her potential against the formidable Jackie Young. Despite the loss, James held her own, competing well with Young's size and strength, and demonstrating her ability to contribute to any team.
In the 1-on-1 tournament, James battled on the boards, scored off an offensive rebound, and even managed to drive to the rim, take contact from Young, and make a layup over her. Her performance against a four-time All-Star and three-time WNBA champion is a testament to her talent and potential.
James' future with the Wings is uncertain, as the expansion draft will be a challenging time for the team. The Wings are expected to protect five players from the Tempo and Fire, but this may not be enough to safeguard all of their young talent. Paige Bueckers and Maddy Siegrist are already locks for the list, and Arike Ogunbowale is a strong candidate, leaving the Wings with two spots and a wealth of talent, including Ajša Sivka, Awak Kuier, Luisa Geiselsöder, Li Yueru, and James.
General Manager Curt Miller seems determined to bring Kuier back, making her a strong candidate for the team's protected players. If James is left unprotected, she will almost certainly be picked by the Tempo or Fire, highlighting the importance of her talent to the Wings and the Unrivaled teams.
James' performance in the 1-on-1 tournament and her potential as a player cannot be overstated. Her ability to compete against top talent and her versatility on the court make her a valuable asset to any team. The expansion draft will be a crucial moment for the Wings, and James' future with the team remains uncertain, but her talent and potential are undeniable.
