Nyara Sabally had everything going for her.
Playing in her hometown, she significantly contributed to New York’s first WNBA Championship in 2024. Her mother always dreamed that she and her sister, Sato, would one day play there.
This offseason, however, Sato joined the Liberty as a free agent, while Nyara was moved to the new Toronto Tempo expansion team, leading to some misunderstandings between the sisters.
On Wednesday, they had a brief reunion just before the Liberty defeated the Tempo 97-82 at Barclays Center.
After three seasons in New York, the 26-year-old received a heartfelt welcome from the Liberty fans during the lineup announcement, especially after a tribute video was played in her honor, featuring coach Sandy Brondello, Isabelle Harrison, and former assistants Olaf Lange and Brian Lankton.
Nyara managed to score 11 points, grab six rebounds, and dish out three assists against her old team. Leading up to this game, she was enjoying a career-best season, averaging 11.9 points.
“It’s always special,” said Sabally after the match. “I feel like both Sandy and I—we had an amazing time here. The fans are great, and it’s really nice to be back in New York.”
Nyara learned she was picked by Toronto during the expansion draft while at Barclays Center. She was flooded with emotions, especially after her sister was signed by the Liberty just eight days later.
Arriving in New York the day before, Nyara went straight to her sister’s apartment and met up with former Liberty players, including Leonie Fievich.
Following the game, Brianna Stewart commented, “I’m really pleased with how New York performed. It’s unfortunate for her to be taken in the expansion draft, but it provided her with a chance to take on a role she didn’t have before. It’s an opportunity for her to lead, and she’s really made the most of it.”
All of the Liberty’s starters hit double-digit scoring, with Sato also contributing 12 points off the bench.
“It’s tough to counter that,” Stewart noted. “If you shut down one option, another one opens up. Having that kind of versatility will definitely benefit us moving forward.”
Meanwhile, Sabrina Ionescu was sidelined due to back pain and is still feeling discomfort.
Coach Chris DeMarco mentioned he hopes she can play against the Fever on Saturday.
