Sabrina Ionescu originally featured in Athlon Sports as a strong MVP candidate in the latter half of the WNBA season. The New York Liberty’s painful loss to the Connecticut Sun on Friday marked not only their worst four-game losing streak but also brought a concerning high in team turnovers.
On Sunday, Ionescu seized the moment in a rematch, delivering an impressive performance with 36 points and 11 rebounds, shooting 63.3% from the field. She came close to matching her career-high with 30 points, solidifying her role as a key player for New York during a challenging period.
Injuries to star players Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart have disrupted the Liberty’s rhythm and prevented the team from fully showcasing their talent. However, Sunday’s game also saw the much-anticipated return of Finals MVP and Euroleague standout Emma Meesman. Despite the changing lineup, Ionescu remains a steady force, driving the team forward.
Her impact extends beyond scoring—she is the driving force that helps turn large deficits into competitive games. Her leadership and determination have been vital in navigating a season filled with obstacles.
Statistically, Ionescu stands out:
- 5th in WNBA scoring with 19.8 points per game
- 4th in rebounds among guards with 4.7 rebounds per game
- All this achieved without being in the top 10 for minutes played
While her offensive game carries some risk, evidenced by multiple turnovers in recent games, the rewards far outweigh the costs. Ionescu has scored 23 or more points in five of her last six games, playing over 34 minutes consistently.
Despite recent struggles, the Liberty remain within striking distance, holding an 18-10 record, 5.5 games behind the league-leading Minnesota Lynx. With 75% of the regular season remaining, there is still ample opportunity for a strong finish and a return to last season’s success.
Naphesa Collier and A’ja Wilson are still leading the MVP race, but don’t be surprised if Ionescu continues to rise into the spotlight. With momentum building and the playoffs approaching, she might have one last surprise to deliver in this year’s WNBA story.
Fan Take: Sabrina Ionescu’s recent resurgence is a beacon of hope for the New York Liberty and WNBA fans alike. Her ability to lead and perform under pressure not only energizes her team but also elevates the excitement and visibility of women’s basketball as the postseason approaches.
