The success of Unrivaled’s 1-on-1 tournament has ignited a compelling discussion leading up to All-Star Weekend, and Jaylen Brown is convinced the NBA should take a serious look at this format.
During a recent media session, the Boston Celtics standout openly supported the idea of a one-on-one tournament, which could provide a fresh angle to the league’s midseason showcase.
“I’m actually a big fan of one-on-one, off-the-dribble contests,” Brown stated. “I think that Ballislife is doing some interesting things too. I really enjoy watching it, as it brings back the true essence of the game.”
Jaylen Brown on being a fan of the @Unrivaledwbb 1v1 tournament:
“Luka, Shai, Brunson, Donovan, I would challenge all those guys 1-on-1.”
(via @NoaDalzell)pic.twitter.com/k2e3x6q3FH
— Legion Hoops (@LegionHoops) February 14, 2026
Brown didn’t stop there; he urged the NBA to lean into the dramatic elements these one-on-one competitions could showcase.
“There are some players I would love to challenge, like Luka [Doncic], Shai [Gilgeous-Alexander], [Jalen] Brunson, Donovan [Mitchell]. I would take them all on one-on-one. We could even donate to any charity, let’s make it happen,” he encouraged.
The feasibility of this concept is intriguing. Unrivaled’s 2026 1-on-1 tournament, which crowned Chelsea Gray as champion, offered a prize of $200,000. Last year, reports indicated that the NBA had contemplated a potential $1 million prize for a similar initiative during All-Star Weekend, though it never came to fruition.
Brown has a history of participating in such events, already entering the Dunk Contest earlier in the 2020s—something many of his contemporaries typically avoid. His performance this season speaks volumes about his confidence; at 29 years old, he is averaging 29.3 points, 6.9 rebounds, and 4.7 assists, proving his worth at both ends of the floor for Boston.
Jaylen Brown Considers UFC After Basketball Career
While presenting ambitious ideas for the NBA’s events, Brown’s competitive nature looks ahead even further, possibly beyond basketball.
The Celtics forward disclosed his thoughts on venturing into combat sports post his NBA tenure.
“To be honest, I’ve contemplated this, and I’ve discussed it with a few people. After my basketball career, I might want to explore a path in UFC or boxing,” Brown said, even mentioning he has spoken with UFC president Dana White about the opportunity.
At 6-foot-6 and 223 pounds, if Brown were to enter the UFC, he’d likely compete in the heavyweight division, a category currently featuring fighters like Jon Jones. While physical size doesn’t guarantee success in the octagon, Brown’s athletic prowess could make this transition more feasible.
For now, these aspirations remain speculative. Brown is focused on pushing the Boston Celtics toward another postseason journey.
