Sabrina Ionescu: 25 Points in Oregon Return | Liberty News
- — Sabrina Ionescu's return to Matthew Knight Arena in eugene was met with thunderous applause as she shouted, "Go Ducks!" The New York Liberty star, a three-time WNBA...
- Ionescu was joined by Liberty teammate Nyara sabally, also an Oregon alum, in the preseason matchup against the Toyota antelopes of Japan.
- This game marks the fourth time this preseason that the WNBA has facilitated reunions between college stars and their former fan bases.Caitlin Clark recently played in Iowa, Angel...
Sabrina Ionescu electrified the crowd with a triumphant return to Oregon, scoring 25 points in the Liberty’s preseason victory, a thrilling exhibition of her enduring impact. This emotional homecoming underscores the WNBA’s clever strategy of utilizing preseason games to reconnect college basketball stars with their devoted fan bases; key to expanding the league’s reach. Ionescu’s exceptional performance included six 3-pointers, captivating the sold-out arena and symbolizing the respect she has earned. The game, and the celebration of “Sabrina Ionescu Day,” highlighted the strong bond between the player and the university. News Directory 3 keeps you informed on these inspiring stories. Discover what’s next for the rising stars of the WNBA.
Ionescu’s Oregon Return Highlights WNBA’s Preseason Role
Updated May 26, 2025
Eugene, Ore. — Sabrina Ionescu’s return to Matthew Knight Arena in eugene was met with thunderous applause as she shouted, “Go Ducks!” The New York Liberty star, a three-time WNBA All-Star, played her frist game in the arena in five years.
Ionescu was joined by Liberty teammate Nyara sabally, also an Oregon alum, in the preseason matchup against the Toyota antelopes of Japan. The game served as a homecoming for both players and a showcase of the WNBA’s strategic role in leveraging college rivalries.
This game marks the fourth time this preseason that the WNBA has facilitated reunions between college stars and their former fan bases.Caitlin Clark recently played in Iowa, Angel Reese returned to LSU, and a trio of former Notre Dame players visited South Bend, Indiana.
Ionescu led the Liberty to an 84-61 victory, scoring 25 points, including six 3-pointers. Sabally contributed seven points. The WNBA preseason games highlight the vital role these players have in growing the league’s fanbase.
Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson declared Monday “Sabrina Ionescu Day,” celebrating Ionescu’s WNBA title with the Liberty and her Olympic gold medal.
“This was just a thank you,” Ionescu said. “This wasn’t any kind of festivity for me. I think it was just me wanting to celebrate the University of Oregon and what they’ve done for me in my career.”
With 6:03 remaining, Ionescu hit a 3-pointer from the midcourt logo, prompting a standing ovation. She acknowledged the crowd before heading to the bench. “It’s great to be back home,” Ionescu told the sold-out arena.
Ionescu’s senior year at Oregon in 2020 was cut short due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The Ducks had just defeated Stanford in the Pac-12 tournament and were expected to be a top seed in the NCAA tournament. Sabally, than a redshirt freshman, missed that season due to an ACL injury.
Ionescu concluded her college career as the NCAA’s all-time leader in triple-doubles, with 26. The Liberty drafted her No. 1 overall in the 2020 WNBA draft.
“I’m glad they’re getting their love,” teammate Natasha cloud said of ionescu and Sabally.”They deserve it. Both of them have grown so much from being here, and obviously being able to win the (WNBA) championship last year, to come back here and celebrate with the fans.”
The Liberty recently exercised Sabally’s fourth-year option,securing her with the team thru the 2026 season. Liberty owner Clara Wu Tsai and Oregon coach Kelly Graves attended the game.