Four-time WNBA All-Star Sabrina Ionescu is set to return to the court for the New York Liberty’s 2026 season opener against the Dallas Wings on Sunday.
As reported by league insider Annie Costabile, Ionescu confirmed to reporters following Saturday’s practice that she will be playing in the game against Dallas, marking the first of a back-to-back series. Despite participating fully in practice, she mentioned that her status is “day by day,” leaving her participation in Monday’s game against the expansion Portland Fire uncertain.
“Just taking it day at a time,” Ionescu said. “Tomorrow for sure.”
The announcement of Ionescu’s return has generated considerable excitement among fans. She is one of the most popular figures in the league, and the anticipation around her comeback is evident. Some fans remarked that Paige Bueckers and the Wings consistently face a fully fit roster.
“Dallas (about) to get that belt again with Sabrina being back tomorrow. Brutality,” one fan wrote.
“Dallas Wings have to be cursed,” another fan tweeted.
Here are other reactions:
Ionescu has been sidelined for the Liberty’s first five games due to a left foot injury sustained in the team’s preseason finale on May 3. Although an MRI showed no severe damage, the injury took longer to heal than initially anticipated.
Liberty insider Myles Ehrlich reported on Saturday that coach Chris DeMarco mentioned a possible minutes restriction for Ionescu, despite her positive recovery progress. The team plans to evaluate her condition after Sunday’s game to decide on her availability for Monday.
Forward Raquel Carrera is also expected to debut this season on Sunday, adding depth to the Liberty’s bench. However, Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (personal reasons), Leonie Fiebich (rest), and Marine Fauthoux (knee rehabilitation) will not be available.
The Liberty will face the Wings at the Barclays Center with a current record of 3-2, while Dallas stands at 3-3.
What did Sabrina Ionescu say about her injury?
The New York Liberty has not provided specific details about the nature of Ionescu’s foot injury. Following Saturday’s practice, Ionescu, a WNBA champion, refrained from elaborating on her foot issue.
“I had some structural damage, but thankfully it responded really quickly, came back,” Ionescu said, per NY Daily News’ Fifi Frimpong. “It’s nothing that’s going to sideline me or need surgery. So thankfully, once it heals, I’m good to go. Really excited to be able to be back and kind of work myself back into feeling good as it continues to heal.”
Selected as the No. 1 pick in the 2020 WNBA draft, Sabrina Ionescu averaged 18.2 points, 5.7 assists, 4.9 rebounds, and 1.3 steals in 2025. Her return strengthens New York’s starting lineup, which already features Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Satou Sabally.
Edited by Kim Daniel Rubinos
