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She talked her talk, and she delivered.
Sabrina Ionescu unquestionably showcased her greatness to the world, doing so with remarkable humility. And she accomplished this feat while representing women's basketball on one of the grandest stages.
To all basketball enthusiasts, including young fans worldwide, she not only embodied the essence of being a role model but also showcased that both women and men can compete on a level playing field.
"If you can shoot, you can shoot. it doesn't matter if you're a boy or a girl," said Ionescu, who's known for her prolific shooting prowess. From Oregon to the WNBA, she ranks among the top shooters in the realm of basketball.
Sabrina Ionescu balled out on the biggest stage
She made 26 successful deep shots from the NBA three-point line, matching Damian Lillard's record, who had just been crowned the three-point champion moments earlier. Similarly, Trae Young, Karl-Anthony Towns, and Tyrese Haliburton also achieved a high of 26 made three-point shots.And she did so shooting from the same line, on the same court.
— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) February 18, 2024
Sabrina Ionescu finishes with 26, Steph Curry with 29!
What a SHOOTOUT! Odds for Steph to win -225pic.twitter.com/9i6Fj5ib38
In a single round, the victor was awarded a personalized wrestling belt dubbed "Sabrina vs. Steph 3-point champion." In a closely contested shootout, Curry emerged as the winner.
For Curry, he's always been a supporter of women's hoops. "Little boys and girls who are watching, it doesn't matter what gym you show up to. Don't discount who's to your left or to your right, " said Curry. "If they can shoot, they can shoot. You can compete and have fun. Hopefully we can be models of what that looks like on the biggest stage. Long term, you continue to find awesome ways to further the conversation on how amazing the women's game is, getting the eyeballs on it."
For Sabrina, Ionescu, this isn't just a win for women's basketball; it's a win for the sport as a whole. This innovative form of entertainment raises the standard for viewers and fans alike, offering a fresh way to showcase the competitive spirit between two of the world's top hoopers.
"Being able to have this crossover and understanding the respect that I've been able to receive from a lot of the NBA guys. Just knowing that Steph wanted to do this as well in terms of just respecting another shooter," said Ionescu in terms of spotlight and growth of the sport. "I think it's going to show a lot of young kids out there, a lot of people who might have not believed or even watched women's sports, that we were able to go out there and put on a show."
Ionescu wants a rematch with Curry next year
Don't be misled by Sabrina, she's not one to go down without a fight. In typical three-point contest fashion, neither star managed to secure more than one round. With the NBA All-Star game set to take place in the Bay Area next year, Ionescu openly discussed a rematch, underscoring her inherent competitiveness. Another words, game on Steph Curry.
"If you can shoot, you can shoot."
— NBA (@NBA) February 18, 2024
- @sabrina_i20pic.twitter.com/9E21ngf1Qk
"We were talking about just getting a second round, Ionescu told I think we both finally just kind of got warm after sitting for a while and wanted to run it back. Maybe we will be able to evolve that next time. Obviously Steph[Curry] won for a reason, and I'm gonna have to try and beat next time." (Warriors PR)
The evening unfolded flawlessly, featuring a showdown between two of the finest shooters, both firing from the same line. However, Curry openly confessed to feeling nervous once Sabrina took off.
"Absolutely, I saw the first rack, I think she made the first six I believe, maybe seven," Curry told the press Saturday night. "Thankfully I made enough to get over the top. That was perfect. Great entertainment, great shooting on both sides, and awesome 70 seconds for both of us." (Warriors PR YouTube).
Sabrina matched an NBA record with an impressive 26 points in the three-point contest.
Ionescu is known for never revealing her hand and thrives on competing in the spotlight. Despite being unsuccessful in hitting all of her shots during warm-up just moments before the event, once it was her time to shine, it was as if a switch was turned on.
And her performance was as authentic as it gets. Often practicing her shots from the NBA line, Ionescu seemed to be in mid-season form. With intense focus and determination, she hit all five of her first shots and continued her streak, nailing seven consecutive shots while the crowd roared with excitement. Though she missed just one three-pointer from the top of the arch, Ionescu faced some difficulties from the right wing.
Stephen vs Sabrina
— WNBA (@WNBA) February 18, 2024@sabrina_i20 of the @nyliberty goes off for 26 points pic.twitter.com/pYPmLnqroh
With 22 points and only 16.8 seconds left, the New York Liberty star managed to hit three of the last five corner shots, including a two-point money ball at the end. Regardless of what many say, she truly shoots and warms up from the NBA three-point line.
Despite Curry's victory, Ionescu illuminated the world of women's basketball.
The only individual who surpassed the 26 mark was Steph Curry, who managed to score 29 three-pointers. Demonstrating exceptional form midway through the season, he displayed remarkable precision by hitting every shot from his money ball rack. With just 8.8 seconds remaining, Ionescu maintained her lead. However, in the final 7 seconds, Curry sunk the remaining two shots, elevating his total to 29.
Although Curry emerged victorious, the competitive spirit remains strong, and his admiration for Ionescu as both a person and a hooper remains unchanged. Their friendship, which began during her Oregon days, is founded on mutual respect, with Curry consistently applauding her work ethic and commitment to her craft.
Before entering the competition, Curry is well aware of Ionescu's profound dedication to both herself and the game of basketball.
"When I first met her [Sabrina Ionescu] back in the Bay, right before the Oregon rocket ship went off, Curry told the media. "You see a different demeanor and a different kind of killer instinct and a focus. The skill is one thing, but the mentality is a whole totally different thing that you kind of can't teach. She's demonstrated that every step of the way. I knew how matter how the buildup was, there would no stage that would be too bright for her. The way she started-- there' no fear. She know's who she is, and she also works." (Warriors PR).
Both Sabrina and Steph have been adamant that this competition was genuine and not merely a box-checking competition. While she may not have emerged as the winner of the competition, Ionescu demonstrated her ability to compete at the highest level alongside male counterparts.
"The respect that I've been able to receive from the NBA guys... it's going to show a lot of people that haven't watched women's sports that we're able to go out there and put on a show."
— NBA (@NBA) February 18, 2024
Sabrina Ionescu on how this competition will help the game of basketball as a whole
Steph Curry and Sabrina Ionescu blaze trails, setting the standard for future events.
Her fearless demeanor captivated 10 million unique viewers, showcasing the greatness of women's basketball and advocating for its broader broadcast to a larger audience. In a time when women's sports are flourishing, this event served as the ideal platform to highlight their excellence and capture the attention of millions of basketball enthusiasts.
To me, that embodies leadership and courage—a readiness to compete on the biggest stage, irrespective of the result, to foster the growth of women's basketball. It truly reflects bravery and determination.
According to NBA Communications on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Saturday night events attracted 10 million unique viewers. These numbers mark a significant increase of nearly 54 percent from last year.
"You don't do things to just check a box," said Curry. "This is something-- If you're supporting basketball, and generally supporting women's basketball, it's something you continually do. You find new creative ways to have investment in the game. The fact this is a first of a kind in our sport, the fact that it's on this stage, it's a step in the right direction. We will always be able to say we were the first." (Warriors PR).
Truly two special individuals, this is only the beginning for promoting women's sports.
Stay tuned for more related articles.?Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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This upcoming NBA All-Star weekend is a "pinch me moment" for New York Liberty star, Sabrina Ionescu. How many people can say they are competing during a first ever shootout against your idol? It's a dream come true for not only Sabrina, but WNBA and NBA fans as well.
Growing up in the 90's, I had dreams of playing one on one with Michael Jordan, and I couldn't imagine meeting him, let alone competing against him.
For quite some time, Ionescu has been a dedicated admirer of NBA star Steph Curry. Since she was 10 years old, he even graced the screen background of her phone. Like many young sports enthusiasts, Ionescu adorned her bedroom with Curry memorabilia, including posters and pictures.
This weekend, the two superstars will face off in the "Stephen vs. Sabrina" 3-point challenge. As a four-time NBA Champion, the Warriors star has been an inspiration to Ionescu in numerous ways. Likewise, the Liberty guard has made a significant impact on Curry, and their friendship spans many years.
"I was about 10, and watched him from up in the stands," Ionescu told the media on a video conference call. "I just knew how much he inspired me from a really young age, and who I wanted to model my game after, as a basketball player, but as a person."
Sabrina Ionescu has been a fan of Steph Curry from 10 years old, and even had him as the background of her phone. She went to games and developed a relationship with him through college.
— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) February 14, 2024
"I was about 10 and watched him from up in the stands. And just knew how much he inspired…
With a connection to the late Kobe Bryant, Ionescu shares similarities in her game with Curry. Renowned as two of the finest three-point shooters in basketball, both are notorious for their ability to sink shots from well beyond the three-point line.
Raised in California, Ionescu hails from Walnut Creek, near the Bay Area, and attended Miramonte High School in Orinda, California. Coincidentally, her proximity allowed her to attend games during her upbringing. Curry, 35, is in his 15th NBA season, all with the Warriors.
Sabrina Ionescu grew up idolizing Steph Curry
In a video call with the media, Ionescu expressed, "I couldn't have asked for a better idol and mentor, and someone I can look up to and want to emulate my game after and who I am as a person." She emphasized that Curry's authenticity, as seen in public, has been crucial in her endeavor to remain genuine and true to herself."
For Curry, he recognizes how significant she is to the game of basketball and acknowledges her dedication to her craft.
"There's a wave around her every time she steps foot on the floor," said Curry. "You see somebody that has that look, that determination, and that reverence for the game. How you handle yourself and how you carry yourself with that spotlight, it's not easy."
He describes the former Oregon Duck as a "true ambassador for the game, somebody that you would want your daughters, your sons to looks up to."
When did Steph and Sabrina develop their connection?
Look who showed up to @sabrina_i20’s practice
— WNBA (@WNBA) February 16, 2024
It’s goin’ down tomorrow night for Stephen vs Sabrina at 8pm/ET on TNT pic.twitter.com/qvRfHhv21z
Apart from Sabrina growing up in the backyard of Curry's success, there's interest in exploring the roots of their connection. Like Curry, she's motivated, and of course, the two share the Bay-Area connection. Curry made it known Sabrina "was a true Warriors die-hard fan from the jump," which makes the relationship even more special.
Leading up to the NBA All-Star weekend, Curry highlighted that their connection dates back to Ionescu's college days at Oregon. He mentioned taking his children to her games, where Sabrina made them feel valued and cherished.
In fact, while the two haven't officially competed on the court just yet, it sounds like they've gone up against each other quite a few times back at home.
"Well, Steph remembers the last time that we played up in San Francisco, "Sabrina chuckled during her interaction with the media. "So, I don't know if he wants to talk about it. Curry was quick to point out "Thats why I called her the champ."
Perhaps Sabrina left Curry stumbling on the floor with some ankle breaking moves. Though we may never have the full details, it's heartening to witness their connection evolve over the years.
"We've had fun," said Sabrina Ionescu. "I mean, we've competed a couple of times, obviously never on this stage. I feel like we've always been competing and being able to keep up with one another from afar. " Since the WNBA and NBA seasons don't overlap, Sabrina mentioned that they shoot "a lot" and "love to play" whenever they have the opportunity to spend time together in the gym.
After all, it's the NBA's all-time leader in three-pointers made versus the three-point queen. Can you imagine just how many threes are sunk during their meetups?
How it all went down
Shoot out??
— Sabrina Ionescu (@sabrina_i20) July 15, 2023@StephenCurry30
The 3-point contest is something that's been in the works, especially after Ionescu hit 20 straight shots for a record 37 points in the WNBA 3-point contest. Initially, it started off as a joke between the two.
"We talked about it the day that it happened," said Sabrina. " We got on the phone and just of were just laughing. Sabrina emphasized the significance of this event, highlighting its uniqueness as a one-of-a-kind moment between the two of them. Given that Ionescu is in the off-season, she and Curry are finally able to be in the same place at the same time.
"We're able to highlight the W [WNBA)," said Ionescu. "Knowing that we're able to have our own contest, it's not like I'm joining the NBA three-point contest. But we're really having our own and the significance and importance of that--Kind of just having that idea stemmed as a joke, and now being able to see it come to life. It's going to be a great experience for us both and exciting to see obviously who the winner is, but what it's going to mean for basketball as a whole."
Steph Curry said he "couldn't back down" after he was challenged by Ionescu on social media and that he "absolutely loves it."
What this means for women's basketball
Sabrina Ionescu on what to expect for the WNBA when competing against Curry All-Star weekend.
— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) February 14, 2024
Q: @ClassicJpow
"It's just continuing to raise the bar . To put us up and give us the opportunities to be on this platform-- Being on TV , and young girls and young boys being able to…
Steph Curry has always been an advocate for women's basketball, and this yet another way to showcase Sabrina Ionescu and women's hoops on a larger stage. While it's a friendly matchup, Ionescu shared with us the importance of the event, and what she hopes it will accomplish.
"There's an opportunity to raise awareness of and there's obviously many, many people in our society that still don't give the respect to women's sports and to women in general. Knowing this is an opportunity is sometimes all you need to be able to go out there and shut a lot of people up. Steph really believes in me to be able to go out there but is understanding what it is that we're accomplishing. Speaks volumes to him as an individual."
For Curry, it's about redefining competition and continuously pushing the boundaries. It's about seizing opportunities and fully investing in the moment. While they emphasize that none of this is scripted, the event provides an opportunity for young girls and boys to witness women's basketball on a much larger platform.
"You look for opportunities to continue to raise the bar on what it means to be a basketball fan, said Curry. "Watching what she [Sabrina] did on All-Stat weekend, watching what the WNBA season was like, how it's continuing to grow. It's an authentic competition between two great shooters, who have had success in a three-point contest."
This Saturday, basketball fans worldwide are poised to witness two of the greatest three-point shooters in the history of the game.
Stay tuned for more related articles. Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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For the first time ever, two of the most prolific shooters will compete against each other in this year's NBA All-Star weekend. This time, New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu will go head-to-head with Golden State Warriors guard, Steph Curry in a three-point challenge. The first WNBA x NBA three-point challenge, spectators are in for a real treat.
SABRINA IONESCU COULD NOT MISS
— ESPN (@espn) July 14, 2023#WNBAAllStar pic.twitter.com/lEbXwvoTIp
The event's been brewing ever since the queen of threes broke the previous three-point contest record with 31, set by Curry in 2021, and Tyrese Haliburton in 2023. The highest record previously set by an WNBA player, was Allie Quigley with 30.
The news was confirmed this week after much speculation. On Jan. 25, 2x three-pointer contest champion Steph Curry was mic'd up prior to the game aired on TNT. Chatting next to rookie Brandin Podziemski, Curry was seen discussing the possible challenge.
"We got to settle this once and for all. I think I got to challenge her. It'd be lit, said Curry."
Presented by State Farm, Curry, the NBA all-time three-point leader will compete against Ionescu in "Sabrina vs. Steph." The historic event will take place on Saturday. Feb. 17, at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana.
“I think this is like the coolest thing ever. … It’s gonna be great and I think the fans will love it!”
— NBA on TNT (@NBAonTNT) January 31, 2024
Steph on 3-point challenge with Sabrina Ionescupic.twitter.com/JRCTjzaEpZ
The Warrior's guard is calling this one-of-a-kind event the "coolest thing ever," after Golden State's 119-107 victory over Philadelphia on Tuesday. I know she kind of broke the airwaves--when she only missed two or something like that. I was on some golf course somewhere; my phone was blowing up saying what Sabrina had done--I think the fact that we can join forces and put her front and center in the NBA All-Star weekend-- I love the confidence, I love the competition."
Ionescu has never been shy from shooting and has even agreed to shoot from the NBA three-point line. In fact, the WNBA perimeter line is significantly smaller, measuring 20-feet 6-inches from the basket, compared to 23-feet, 9-inches. While that was all in fun, she will shoot from the WNBA three-point line, and Curry will shoot from the NBA three-point line.
Fully embracing the competition, Ionescu was seemingly excited and accepted the challenge in several posts on social media.
What so great about this event? Eat. Learn. Play and SI20 foundation, Curry and Ionescu's respective charities, will receive a donation for every three-pointer made in the competition. In continuing to give back, State Farm will donate money from every three-point shot made to the NBA Foundation, which supports economic empowerment in the Black community.
A standard three will net at $1,000, while the "money ball" and "STARRY Range Ball" will be valued at $2,000 and $3,000.
Ionescu, a 2x WNBA All-Star, finished up her fourth season with the New York Liberty. Shooting a career-high 44.8 percent from three in 2023, the California native set an WNBA single season 3-point field goals made with 128. Capturing the Commissioners cup in August, Ionescu and the Liberty fell short in the WNBA Finals against the Las Vegas Aces.
Curry, a 4x NBA Champion, is the NBA all-time leader in 3-point field goals with 3,585. Aging like fine wine, 'chef Curry' has a career 42.6 percentage from beyond the perimeter.
Both are set to make appearances in Brooklyn this week. For Ionescu, she's set to take part of USA Basketball Women’s National Team Training Camp, which will take place at the Barclays Center. Ironically enough, the Brooklyn Nets will host Curry and the Warriors on Monday.
Stay tuned for more related articles.?Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter, Content Creator and Social Media Manager for Ballislife Bets.?She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the?University?of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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No. 20 is a superstar in the making
If you didn't know, New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu scored a record 37 points to win the WNBA three-point contest this season. 37 is a record for both the NBA and WNBA, surpassing Steph Curry, Klay Thompson, Dirk Nowitzki, among several other basketball greats.
One of the most captivating players in women's basketball NCAA history, Sabrina Ionescu was an iconic name at the University of Oregon. The all-time NCAA leader in triple doubles (26), Ionescu has quite the versatile skill set. Yes, the Oregon Ducks lost to Baylor in the Final Four her junior season. Unfortunately, the world didn't get to see Ionescu on the biggest stage in 2020 due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Ranked as one of the all-time greats in NCAA basketball, Ionescu totaled 4,693 minutes played, points scored, rebounds, and assists. That's second all-time in NCAA basketball history, just behind Cheryl Miller. To show how great she really was, Sabrina had rankings over Pete Maravich, Doug McDermott, Elena Delle Donne, Tim Duncan, Lisa Leslie, Rebecca Lobo, Steph Curry, Diana Taurasi, Candace Parker, and Shaquille O'Neal. That is sheer greatness, which has translated into her WNBA career.
Throughout her collegiate career and into the WNBA, Ionescu notably stated she thrives in big moments. Drafted No. 1 overall by the New York Liberty in 2020, the guards first season was cut short due to an ankle injury. New York finished 12-20 in 2021, and the Liberty conceded to the Chicago Sky in the first round in 2022.
Sabrina Ionescu experience her first WNBA Finals run
Sab always knows how to keep things light
— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) October 21, 2023#wnba #WNBAFinals #LightItUpNYL pic.twitter.com/PTt5k7b5zT
Having been in the spotlight, Ionescu was truly tested in the 2023 Finals against the Las Vegas Aces. In four Finals games, Sabrina averaged an underwhelming 9.8 points, 3.8 rebounds, and 5.5 assists per game. With the Aces strong three guard lineup, Ionescu was held to 31.6 percent field goal shooting. In her first Finals, the Liberty collapsed in games one, two, and four. New York didn't have an answer, as the Las Vegas Aces won their second consecutive WNBA Championship.
In fact Sabrina Ionescu did admit she does get nervous before games, and was seen puking into a trash can in game four of the WNBA Finals. Down 2-1, the Liberty had a chance to tie the series in front of over 16,000 fans at the Barclays Center.
"I don't know, I was just feeling like I was about to throw up and was calling for a garbage can," said Ionescu. "Maybe the emotions of the game, everything going on, just wasn't feeling great. Good thing were was a garbage can right there and it didn't end up on the floor."
The Liberty now know what it takes to win
"There was this pressure in understanding that we didn't achieve our goals, and I don't believe in that, " Ionescu told the press. "There's beauty in the struggle, and you have to understand what it feels like to lose to come out on top. For us, having that silence in the locker room, knowing what it feels like to be so close and not get it, is going to fuel us going into this offseason, into this next year, understanding what it takes to win."
Not only was this the first Finals appearance for Sabrina, the Liberty haven't reached the WNBA Finals since 2002. With such acquisitions of players in the offseason, New York ended that 21 year drought.
2023 was a lot of "firsts" for Sabrina Ionescu
"It was a lot of firsts for me, it wasn't just the finals, it was the semi-finals. There was a lot of firsts for me this year. Understanding that I am 25 years old and still trying to figure it out. I think giving myself grace through that process, but also holding myself to a really high standard. Now having those experiences under my belt, I now understand what it takes-- what it takes to win at home, what it takes to win on the road."
Although Ionescu and the Liberty didn't reach their lofty championship goals, their season was historic. Finishing a franchise best 32-8, New York won their first Finals game since 1999, when Teresa Weatherspoon hit that half-court shot. For many fans, the Liberty brought hope back to New York, and did so with minimal time to develop as a team.
"I've never been on a team that's been more committed to one another than what it's been like this year," continued Ionescu. "We had players from all over come together in such a short amount of time and commit to one another. For a team as new as we were, with so many different role changes, to come in and be in a finals, is unheard of."
The Aces experienced a fair amount of early struggles
3 years ago today the Seattle Storm completed the sweep!
— Across the Timeline (@WBBTimeline) October 6, 2023
Breanna Stewart led with 26 points as the Storm won 92-59 over the Aces, claiming the series 3-0 and winning the 2020 WNBA championship.
Seattle became the 3rd franchise with 4 titles (Houston, Minnesota). pic.twitter.com/q7ggk0HUuO
As I like to always say when it comes to sports, "Rome wasn't built in a day." As for the Las Vegas Aces, they join the Los Angeles Sparks and the Houston Comets as the only teams to capture back-to-back Championships. Through their trek, it hasn't always been easy for Vegas. With the organization relocating from San Antonio before the 2018 season, the Aces held several top draft picks. Following their relocation, they conceded twice in the Semifinals, including a defeat in the 2020 Finals to the Seattle Storm.
"Us at the core understand the commitment that we had to each other to get to this point," said Ionescu. "I wouldn't have wanted to do it with anyone else, and I'm so excited that we had the team that we did. We bought into one another because it's really tough to get to this point. Vegas lost many before they were able to win. That's part of the struggle, that's part of figuring out how to get on top is having to lose."
She was dealing with a hip injury through the Finals
Sabrina Ionescu said she hurt her hip in Game 3 vs. Connecticut
— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) October 20, 2023
"I had to get an injection before the game , just before those first two Vegas games, so, not ideal. It just kind of what happens. I wasn't really able to walk so timing wasn't great."#wnba
Making no excuses, Sabrina Ionescu shockingly dealt with a hip injury. No. 20 originally suffered the ailment in Game 4 against the Connecticut Sun in the Semifinals, in which she was seen icing her hip. Ionescu, a guard who is extremely mobile off screens and getting to the rim, stated the injury very much affected her in the Finals. She made it very clear, it's still not an excuse for their defeat. Ionescu mentioned she put "everything out there" and did everything she possibly could to help her team.
"Hip injury," Ionescu stated. "I hurt it in the Connecticut game, game four. Yeah, I had to get an injection before the game just to be able to play in those first two Vegas games. Obviously not ideal. It's just kind of what happens, and there's no excuse, obviously. I wasn't really able to walk, so timing wasn't great. I believe it taught me something, and it's all part of the plan."
In an exhilarating three point defeat in game 4 against Connecticut, Sabrina had just 9 points, 7 assists, and 5 rebounds. In ten playoff games, including the finals, the Liberty guard averaged 13.7 points on 40 percent three-point shooting.
Sab looks to elevate her game this offseason
3 PT QU33N IN ACTION
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) October 19, 2023pic.twitter.com/l2n7r6RJWZ
Looking to elevate and improve her game this offseason, Ionescu stated she will spend the offseason on the west coast, and will not be playing professional basketball overseas. No. 20 said she'll be "busy" with USA Basketball and her camps back in Eugene, Oregon.
"I'm excited to continue to work on my game," said the guard. "I believe last year, having my first healthy offseason, being able to work on my game--I was able to come out and have the year that I wanted. This year, I'm excited to do that again, and take my game to the next level."
Expressing she'll get back in the gym in the next few days, Sabrina Ionescu shot 44.8 percent from long range this season. Improved by over 11 percent, Sabrina is always trying to better herself, and her game. Having led the league with 128 made threes, she broke Diana Taurasi's single season record.
"It's back to work, it's going to last a couple of days, now I'm looking forward to the next season." The Liberty guard feels the offseason will be crucial to improving her game, and will focus on using less ball screens.
"I've been able to see the improvement I had from the three point line, one season to the next. It's the best shooting percentage I've had from the three-point line. I want to take that to the next level as well."
Cited as a big "film watcher," Sabrina Ionescu and the New York Liberty will most likely keep their core players for another Championship run in 2024. Regardless of this year's outcome, Sabrina Ionescu is a star in the making.
Stay tuned for more WNBA related articles. Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at Ballislife, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut/NYC area with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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The New York Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces 99-61, and handed Vegas their biggest loss of the season. Coming into this highly anticipated matchup, the Aces were 24-2, and fresh off eight straight wins. The 1998 Houston Comets hold the best record in WNBA History (27-3), and the Las Vegas still have the chance to beat that record. The game was broadcasted on ABC and had a sellout crowd of 11,418 fans at the Barclays Center. As of three weeks ago, the WNBA's viewership was up 46 percent compared to last season. The crowd was electric, as the top two teams played the first of four matchups in August. WNBA Commisioner, Cathy Englebert was present, and discussed the growth of the WNBA, which will be touched upon in the next article.
STRAIGHT DOMINANCE
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 6, 2023
The #2 @nyliberty defeat the #1 Las Vegas Aces 99-61 to even out the szn series at 1-1, led by @sabrina_i20's 31 PTS#MoreThanGame pic.twitter.com/Ug6FBG6VN0
New York Liberty Head Coach Sandy Brondello on a sold-out crowd
Prior to the game, Liberty Head Coach Sandy Brondello talked about the importance of a sold-out crowd.
"I think it's great that people are coming out to watch women's basketball and the WNBA. These are the best players in the world," said Brondello. "We've had great crowds, but really excited about the crowd tonight, because you know it's two really good teams going against each other. "
On Sunday, the New York Liberty hosted their annual women's health game, presented by Empire BlueCross BlueShield. Outside the Barclays, the health fair included mammogram screenings, and additional resources. The Multiple Myeloma Reaearch Foundation teamed up with the New York Liberty, and donated $500 per every Courtney Vandersloot assist, in order to raise awareness.
Before the game, Courtney Vandersloot expressed her gratitude for the awareness, and that her mother suffers from multiple myeloma.
"It's so big not only for me, but for the community—when I was going through all of this [free agency], when I was meeting with New York, it was really big on them to promise and support me in any way they wanted," said Vandersloot. "For something that's so important to me, and specifically my mom, and the whole community, I'm excited."
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 6, 2023
The New York Liberty dominated on the Glass
In their first matchup of the season, the Aces crushed the Liberty 98-81, in which New York created seventeen total turnovers. Las Vegas outscored New York in the paint, and had ten steals as a team. This second game, New York made a statement.
Prior to the win, New York had 31 rebounds in June against Vegas. On Sunday, the Liberty grabbed 48 boards, including 14 by Jonquel Jones. The Liberty starting five each seized at least four rebounds, and had key defensive boards by Betnijah Laney, Kayla Thornton, Breanna Stewart, Courtney Vandersloot, and Sabrina Ionescu. The fight for the boxouts, as well as boards, created twenty second chance points for New York, compared to the Aces zero.
Tuff board for a tuff buck
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 6, 2023@jus242 is our @Withings Highlight of the Game pic.twitter.com/9vXoQNo6at
The New York Liberty controlled the boards, with 26 by halftime, and limited the Aces to 12 in each of the halves. We saw several put backs by Liberty's Jonquel Jones, and rebounds that led to three-point shots, made by Ionescu, Laney, Vandersloot, and Stewart. Overall, it was a physical game, and team effort by the Liberty, who rank second in the WNBA in rebounds per game (38.5), and third in opponent rebounds per game (33.4). New York held Vegas star, A'ja Wilson, who ranks third in rebounds, to 7, and the Aces, to 24 rebounds (ten less than their game average).
New York forward Jonquel Jones talked in depth about the difference between this game, and the prior with Vegas.
"I think everybody was just locked in. I think that was the biggest thing—I felt like everyone was on the same page—when you play defense like that, it's really hard, said Jones."
Coach Brondello on second chance points and rebounding
Coach Sandy Brondello weighed in on the importance of rebounds, and how her team has improved post all-star break. "You want to be a great defense rebounding team, and I think since the all-star break, that's where we really got going—JJ's been a monster lately. Just really establishing herself down low and being relentless. Those extra possessions certainly did help us. It's just everyone doing their jobs and finishing, " said Brondello.
Coach @SBrondello is a whole MOOD!! That griddy was clean too
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 7, 2023
Liberty forward, Betnijah Laney, was a huge presence on the glass for New York. In 32 minutes, Laney grabbed 9 boards. She also played on key role on defense, as well as the offense.
Sabrina Ionescu dominates
New York Liberty star, Sabrina Ionescu was locked in, from the time of warmups, until the end of the games. Whether in the corner or at the hash, Ionescu wasn't missing any buckets pre-game, and that translated throughout the entire matchup.
New York Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu with some warm up shots
— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) August 6, 2023pic.twitter.com/kS7RKrTsit
The Aces have the highest net rating in the league, and the overall best defense. Sabrina Ionescu, a lethal weapon beyond the arc, was deemed unguardable. Shooting 44 percent from the three-point this season, the Liberty guard finished with 31 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists. It marked her fifth 30-point game this season, which tied her 2022 record. Ionescu had 23 points by the first half, in which she finished the game on 6-10 three-point shooting, and 12-19 from the field.
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 6, 2023
FINAL SCORES & TOP PERFORMERS THREAD
The @nyliberty dominated in a 38-PT win over the defending champs behind a monster performance from @sabrina_i20
The third-year guard also leads the league with 94 three-pointers made. New York's Betnijah Laney had a beautiful defensive save, which turned into Ionescu hitting a three-pointer from nearly the logo. The all-star impressed the home crowd, took advantage of open looks, the pick and roll, full court presses, along with off ball screens. Ionescu pounded the lay ins, made crisp, sharp passes, only comitting one turnover.
The New York Liberty had a monster second half
The second half of the game was entertaining, yet simply magnificent. The Liberty went on a 35-9 run with 8 minutes to go, and outscored the Aces 30-9 in the third quarter. On Sunday afternoon, New York shot 50 percent from the field, 44 percent from the three, and made all of their shots at the line. Their 38-point win over the Aces was the second largest in team history, and arguably New York's best game of the year.
Defensive Showdown
Defensively, New York held Las Vegas, the leading offensive team in the league, to just 17 points in the second half. By the end of the first quarter, Aces player, Jackie Young had 8 points, and couldn't be stopped inside. In the second quarter, New York collapsed inside the paint, allowing Aces guard, Kelsey Plum, to knock down threes. The Liberty mainly opted to play man defense, creating the stops in the interior, and switching on screens.
New York made adjustments, and Betnijah Laney played strong defense. Liberty star, Breanna Stewart had a tough matchup with Aces A'ja Wilson, who had 11 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter. Stewart, who had three blocks and steals, held Wilson to 9 points on 2-14 shooting. Overall, it was a solid team effort on both sides of the ball, with terrific ball movement. On offense, they looked for the mismatches, and capitalized on them.
THE GENERAL
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 6, 2023@Sloot22 is now second in all-time W assists
In addition, Courtney Vandersloot finished with ten points, and six assists, which puts her second on the all-time assist list. Her six dimes raised $3000 for the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart on the victory
If you were watching the game on ABC, the Liberty were having fun as a team. Poised to win a championship with Jonquel Jones, Sabrina Ionescu, and Breanna Stewart, the starting five had 25 assists, and won four straight games. With the amount of talent and options on this team, Sabrina Ionescu gave her thoughts post-game.
"A lot of fun, just being able to share the ball and understand that we have so many weapons and ways we can attack—the more we're able to figure out one another and continue to build chemistry, we're just a tough team to beat, and I think we were able to show that tonight," said Ionescu.
Breanna Stewart was asked about the victory over the best team in the league, and what message that win sent to the league.
"The statement that we made is, we're taking the plays hard, and especially, when we really lock in and are all on the same page, defensively, and offensively. It's hard to stop. We had a 50,40,100 game, which is kind of crazy."
2023 WNBA Commissioner Cup
The #CommissionersCup Championship between the returning @LVAces and the first-time @nyliberty is set
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 7, 2023
Will the cup stay in Sin City or head to the Big Apple? Find outAugust 15th
Las Vegas
https://t.co/1TlMjtlNHk
WNBA Commissioner's Cup presented by @coinbase pic.twitter.com/vxMEc7yntL
The WNBA Commissioner Cup is an in-season tournament, where teams compete for funds with the addition charitable donations. The New York Liberty will play the Las Vegas Aces for this year's cup, on Tuesday, August 15th, at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Both Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart gave their thoughts on the upcoming cup matchup.
"It was a goal of ours, obviously, to play for a Commissioners Cup championship. Understanding that, we've set the level of how we need to play every single game, in order to be at our best," said Ionescu.
The New York Liberty are set to face the Aces three more times in August, including for the Cup.
Sabrina humbly talked about her team, what the win meant tonight, and future matchups with Vegas. "Throughout the next month, we're gonna se them a lot, so we have to continue to just make adjustments and play within ourselves and continue to get better." "We are not sitting here jumping for joy that we beat them. I think for us, it's just a wakeup call of how good we can actually be."
Stewart quickly added, "I'm excited for the charter."
The New York Liberty will next face off against the Chicago Sky, at home on August 11th. The Las Vegas Aces will face the Dallas Wings on the road, Tuesday.
For more WNBA related articles, click here!
Sara Jane is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, Journalist, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. She is a Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, New York Yankees, and New York Giants fan. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics.
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]]>The New York Liberty made history against the Indiana Fever on Sunday. They were the first team to ever score 44 points in any given first quarter in WNBA History.
The Liberty were on a different level in the first half
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) July 23, 202369.7% FG%
No, Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart didn't lead the way, however I had the chance to catch up with them post-game. They both were extremely humble, and gave their insight on the team's success, and what the Liberty need to do, now that the season is halfway over.
Breanna Stewart, 28, is in the first year of her contract with the New York Liberty. Stewart, known as "Stewie," was a 2x WNBA Champion with the Seattle Storm. The former No. 1 pick has New York roots and is back in her home state. In Sunday's game, Breanna Stewart had 11 points, 3 assists, 4 rebounds, 2 steals, and shot 4-11 from the field.
"I'm not sure what we shot from for that quarter, but it was incredible, and everybody was playing free and being comfortable—people were shooting confidently and also knowing, that's our goal," said Breanna Stewart on her team making WNBA history.
With 3:42 to go in the first-quarter, Fever rookie, Aliyah Boston caught a flagrant foul type 1, after Stewart took an elbow to the face. Aliyah Boston and Breanna Stewart have two things in common: They both were a former No. 1 overall draft pick, and they both won a championship at the collegiate level. "Stewie" spoke on the incident following the flagrant.
"[I mean] I just caught an elbow, things like that happen."
Stewart offered some encouraging words for the Fever Center, and advice about being a top WNBA pick.
"Taking one day at a time—enjoy all the moments, enjoy the struggles, because this is a journey, and [you know] —you're gonna continue to build with an Indiana Fever franchise, that's only getting better." Breanna Stewart on her advice as a rookie and what the future holds for Aliyah Boston.
KT
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) July 23, 2023
After the win on Sunday, The Liberty are 16-5, and stand first in the Eastern Conference. With that said, New York already surpassed their record from 2022-2023, and the second half of the season has started. The Liberty are the second-best team, and only one team stands in there way, the Las Vegas Aces. What separates the Aces from the Liberty, or even the Connecticut Sun, is their net and offensive rating. While the Liberty rank second in the league in net rating (7.4), the Aces have them beat at a stellar 19.2. In addition, Las Vegas has an offensive rating of 114.1, while the Liberty have a 107.8 offensive rating. Las Vegas had four All-Stars represent the organization, and is chasing the best record in league history, held by the Phoenix Suns in 2014.
When I asked about Stewart's confidence in her team, she confidently smiled and stated, " We're now in like the second half of the season— I know that we wanna continue to get better. What we did in the first half is great—we're taking it one game at a time."
When asked about the Las Vegas Aces, Stewie humbly talked about her team, and how they plan to move forward, knowing the Aces stand in their way. "Obviously everyone's talking about Vegas, and we'll see them in the Commisioner's Cup, and in August, but making sure that [you know] we continue to do our due diligence for everybody and focus on that. "
While acknowledging the talent in the WNBA, Stewart stated the importance of doing their homework and staying to themselves. "If we continue to look at ourselves, and continue to get better that way, then the rest is for everyone else."
Breanna Stewart also opened up about teammate, Betnijah Laney, who had a career-high 22 points last game, and her playstyle. "I've known her for a long time, like since we were 14 or 16—so to be back with her, know that she never stops—I'm looking for her, she's looking for me, and just continuing to build that chemistry, because she gets open— she's open a lot, especially in the corners. "
Breanna Stewart on hard work and how it pays off on the court, " I think it's more like trusting the process and continuing to kind of stick with it."
Sabrina Ionescu on Sunday's game, rest days, and the rest of the season.
Sabrina Ionescu, 25, is a two-time All-Star, and just broke the all-time NBA and WNBA three-point contest record with 37. Ionescu, drafted first overall in 2016, has a different role now that her, Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones formed a "superteam."
It's giving 4PT shot from All-Star
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) July 23, 2023@sabrina_i20 is TUFF
pic.twitter.com/bfT8TUPiuY
When asked about the team's success moving forward, Sabrina was very adamant about trusting her teammates, specifically the bench. "To have players come in off the bench and hit—hitting shots and playing in rhythm—it's huge for us as a team, and for them themselves, to just continue to build confidence.
Ionescu also mentioned the importance of gameplay and how the Liberty were able to play so effective against the Fever. " We're building chemistry—we were able to play to each other's strengths and use the gravity that we have— not letting defenses really dictate what we wanna do—and we were able to do that tonight. "
Now that the season is halfway over, New York has to lock in for 19 regular season games before the start of the playoffs. Sabrina was able to shed light on her rest days, and how the team mentally and physically prepares for the next game. "You know, normally we're in here trying to get extra shots up—understanding what the schedule looks ahead, means [you know] tomorrow is off, and everyone's gotta get their feet and take time to recover—we gotta stay fresh and locked in to be able to play for 40 minutes because we play at such a fast pace."
I specifically asked Sabrina about her ability to stay humble and stay disciplined following her historic All-Star weekend. Ionescu confidently stated, "I know what I'm capable of—capable of doing [you know] every single night, and I trust the work that I've put in." "Whether it's tonight or games in the future, I know that I'm gonna have to hit shots for us to continue to win basketball games."
The New York Liberty will look to build on their success tomorrow against the Seattle Storm, at home.
Stay tuned for more WNBA and basketball related articles.
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, Journalist, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. She is a Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, New York Yankees, and New York Giants fan. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics.
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