Here’s a bold statement: Rae Burrell is not just a player with potential—she’s a force ready to redefine her narrative right now. And this is the part most people miss: while many still frame her as a young athlete held back by injuries, Burrell is quietly proving she’s far more than a promise waiting to unfold. It’s time to shift the conversation from what she could do to what she’s already doing—both on and off the court.
Burrell, a first-round pick in 2022, has long been labeled as a high-potential player whose athleticism has been overshadowed by setbacks. But her recent performance in Unrivaled is turning heads and challenging that narrative. Vinyl coach Teresa Weatherspoon has been vocal about Burrell’s unique talent, calling her the most intriguing athlete in the league. But here’s where it gets controversial: is the WNBA ready to see Burrell not as a project, but as a powerhouse in her own right?
In the 1-on-1 tournament, Burrell’s athleticism was on full display. Her lightning-fast speed, tenacious defense, and ability to leap past defenders left no doubt about her capabilities. She dominated All-Star Rhyne Howard in the first round and shut down Sonia Citron 11-0 in the second, only to fall to Allisha Gray later on. These performances weren’t just flashes of brilliance—they were a declaration of her present-day impact.
Burrell’s success isn’t limited to the tournament. After starting the season as a reserve for the Vinyl, she stepped into the starting lineup during a losing streak, replacing veteran Courtney Williams. Since then, she’s become a cornerstone of the team’s offense, ranking as the third-leading scorer behind Dearica Hamby and Rhyne Howard. Averaging 9.3 points on 43.2% shooting, she’s scored over 10 points in six of her 11 games, including a standout 22-point performance against the Laces. Here’s the kicker: she’s not just scoring—she’s locking down opponents too, with 13 steals and three blocks already this season.
But let’s address the elephant in the room: Burrell’s injury history. Since 2022, she’s only come close to a full WNBA season once. A foot injury limited her to three games in her rookie year, and she had to fight her way onto the Sparks’ roster the following season via a hardship contract. Even after earning a multi-year deal and averaging career highs in 2024, another injury cut her season short after just 28 games. The question remains: can Burrell stay healthy long enough to fully unleash her potential?
If she does—and if the 2026 season isn’t disrupted by CBA negotiations—this could be her true breakout year. Her second season in Unrivaled has been a platform for her to refine her skills, build confidence, and prove to the WNBA world that she’s more than her injury-riddled past. Here’s a thought-provoking question for you: Is Rae Burrell the next big star the WNBA has been waiting for, or is her potential still just that—potential? Let’s discuss in the comments!
