Liberty Get Encouraging Signs as Ionescu and Sabally Near Return

The New York Liberty may be off to a strong start in the 2026 WNBA season, but the early success has come without two of their most important stars, Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally, both of whom have been sidelined due to injury-related issues. Despite their absence, recent developments suggest the team may soon regain its full roster strength.

Both players participated in scrimmage action during Monday’s practice, according to reporting from Madeline Kenney of The New York Post, offering the strongest indication yet that they are progressing toward a return. While no official timetable has been announced, the participation marks a meaningful step forward in their recovery processes.

Ionescu has been out since suffering an ankle injury during a preseason matchup against the Connecticut Sun on May 3. Her initial recovery timeline was set at approximately two weeks, and her recent return to limited activity suggests she remains on track to rejoin the lineup soon.

Sabally, meanwhile, has yet to appear in a game for New York after being diagnosed with a cyst during training camp, interrupting her integration into the roster following a high-profile offseason signing intended to elevate the Liberty’s championship aspirations.

1. Injury Setbacks Limit Early Season Expectations

The Liberty entered the 2026 campaign with championship ambitions, but early injuries to key players have forced the team to adjust its rotation and rely on depth options to open the season. Ionescu’s absence in particular has altered the team’s offensive structure. Her ankle injury during preseason action was initially expected to sideline her briefly, but the team has taken a cautious approach to her recovery, prioritizing long-term availability over immediate return. That strategy has helped the Liberty remain competitive while avoiding rushed reintegration. Sabally’s situation has been more complex, as she has not yet played in a regular-season or preseason game for New York due to ongoing medical evaluation and conditioning concerns. Her absence has delayed the full realization of the Liberty’s offseason roster construction. Despite these setbacks, the team has managed to maintain strong early-season form, suggesting that its supporting cast has adapted effectively in the absence of two key contributors.

2. Scrimmage Participation Signals Progress

Monday’s scrimmage participation from both Ionescu and Sabally marked a notable step forward in their rehabilitation timelines. While scrimmages do not guarantee immediate return to game action, they are often a key indicator of readiness progression. Ionescu’s involvement suggests that her ankle injury has improved significantly, allowing her to re-engage in controlled competitive activity. Her return would restore one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers to the Liberty lineup. Sabally’s participation is equally encouraging, given her limited availability since joining the franchise. After dealing with conditioning setbacks and previous injury-related absences, her return to practice action represents an important milestone in her integration. Coaching staff and medical personnel are expected to continue monitoring both players closely as they ramp up toward full-contact readiness and eventual game participation.

3. Strong Start Provides Cushion for Reinforcements

Even without two of their top players, the Liberty have opened the season with a 3-1 record, positioning themselves near the top of the league standings. Their performance has kept them competitive while awaiting reinforcements. The team is currently tied with the Chicago Sky for the second-best record in the league, trailing only the 4-1 Las Vegas Aces. This early success has helped stabilize expectations despite the roster challenges. New York has also benefited from schedule spacing, having not played since a win over the Portland Fire last Thursday. Their next matchup is set for May 21 against the Golden State Valkyries, providing additional recovery time for injured players. As the Liberty prepare for the next stretch of the season, the potential return of Ionescu and Sabally could significantly strengthen a roster already performing at a high level, further solidifying their status as contenders.