Alyssa Ustby, a standout forward from the University of North Carolina (UNC), recently concluded her collegiate career by participating in the 2025 Lilly Women’s College All-Star Game held in Tampa, Florida, on April 5. This prestigious event showcased 20 of the nation’s top senior and graduate women’s basketball players, providing them an opportunity to demonstrate their skills on a national stage.
Ustby was selected to play for Team Lieberman, named in honor of basketball legend Nancy Lieberman. Her teammates included notable players such as Allyson Fertig and Izzy Higginbottom. The opposing Team Miller, named after Cheryl Miller, featured talents like Diamond Johnson and Shyanne Sellers.
The game was part of a broader initiative to elevate women’s college basketball, coinciding with the Women’s Final Four. It aimed to provide a platform for top players to showcase their abilities ahead of the WNBA Draft. The event garnered significant attention, with major sponsorships underscoring its growing prominence in the sports calendar.
During the game, Ustby demonstrated the skills and tenacity that made her a pivotal player for the Tar Heels. While individual statistics from the All-Star game were not detailed, her performance contributed to the competitive spirit of the matchup. Ultimately, Team Miller secured a 71-59 victory over Team Lieberman, with Diamond Johnson earning the Most Valuable Player honors.
Ustby’s participation in the All-Star game was a fitting capstone to a remarkable collegiate career. Over five seasons at UNC, she became the program’s all-time leading rebounder, surpassing the previous record. This achievement highlights her consistent excellence and significant impact on the court.
Her journey to this point was marked by resilience and dedication. Notably, Ustby missed her senior day due to injury but returned to play a crucial role in the NCAA tournament, helping lead the Tar Heels to the Sweet 16. Her ability to overcome adversity and perform at a high level has been a testament to her character and work ethic.
Throughout her time at UNC, Ustby was recognized as one of the top players in the Atlantic Coast Conference. Her versatility and consistent performances earned her a spot among the conference’s elite, reflecting her significant contributions to the team’s success.
The Lilly Women’s College All-Star Game also featured the inaugural Women’s College All-Star Combine, where draft-level prospects participated in various drills and scrimmages in front of professional scouts. While specifics about Ustby’s combine performance were not released, her inclusion in the All-Star game reflects her status as a top prospect.
As Ustby transitions from her collegiate career, her performance in the All-Star game and her record-setting tenure at UNC position her as a promising candidate for the upcoming WNBA Draft. Her combination of skill, experience, and determination will undoubtedly appeal to professional teams.
The All-Star game served not only as a showcase for individual talent but also as a celebration of the growth and competitiveness of women’s college basketball. The sold-out event highlighted the increasing interest and support for the women’s game, signaling a positive trajectory for the sport’s future.
In reflecting on her time at UNC and her participation in the All-Star game, Ustby expressed gratitude for the opportunities and experiences that have shaped her career. Her journey exemplifies the dedication and passion that define collegiate athletics, and she remains an inspiration to aspiring basketball players.
