Reunion in New York
Sato Sabally and Sabrina Ionescu found themselves side by side in the hallway outside the practice courts of the Liberty at Barclays Center. It’s a moment that reunites two former Oregon State teammates in the bustling city.
“I never imagined this would happen,” Ionescu remarked on the first day of training camp. “Back in college, when we got drafted, it felt like that was it. Now, being together again is just amazing.”
Ionescu clarified that while she was keen on Sabally joining the Liberty, she wasn’t involved in the recruitment process. She thought it would be a good fit, of course, but wanted her friend to make the choice that was right for her.
Following Sabally’s decision to sign with the Liberty earlier this month, they celebrated over FaceTime. The excitement was palpable, and both have their eyes set on the potential of their team making a deep playoff run.
Just two seasons ago, the Liberty’s championship trio of Ionescu, Brianna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones faced challenges together and brought home the franchise’s first title. However, the previous season saw Sabally’s team, the Mercury, knock New York out in the first round.
With Sabally now in the mix, the Liberty seems even more determined to reclaim their championship status. There’s a renewed sense of focus.
“From the very beginning, we talked about it—our goal is to win a championship,” said guard Betoniyah Rainey-Hamilton. “But I’m trying not to get ahead of myself.”
After facing elimination last year, the Liberty’s high energy was clear. Their determination to secure another title is still strong.
Although the Liberty has a different look this season compared to 2025, the core traits remain intact. They parted ways with Sandy Brondello and welcomed Chris DeMarco, a seasoned assistant from the Warriors. Sabally brings her unique versatility, while defensive asset Laney Hamilton returns ready to contribute after an injury hiatus.
The potential of this roster excites Ionescu, but may pose challenges for their opponents. “It feels different now because we’re at a new stage in this organization,” she noted. “What we did in the past doesn’t count for much; it’s about the present. The urgency to win is felt by everyone—both newcomers and returnees.”
DeMarco has yet to see the complete team together. Stewart and Marine Johannes are currently engaged in the EuroLeague Women’s Championship and should get to Brooklyn soon. Meanwhile, Leoni Fievich and Raquel Carrera are tied to their Valencia Basket commitments until late May, and Pauline Astier’s arrival will hinge on her ZBL playoff schedule.
Transitioning to DeMarco’s new strategies will take time. Still, there’s a prevailing belief among the group that they can rise back to prominence in the WNBA.
“With the core back and the fresh additions, we’re close,” Hamilton expressed. “For now, I’m just focusing on my next steps, doing what I need to do to achieve my goals.”
