Liberty sign star Satou Sabally in blockbuster free agency move

Reunion with Ionescu sets championship expectations for Liberty this season

Apr. 11, 2026 at 10:07pm

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A fractured, cubist-style painting depicting the dynamic movements and energy of WNBA basketball players, with the vibrant colors of the New York Liberty and Phoenix Mercury uniforms blending together in an abstract, geometric composition.The Liberty's blockbuster signing of Satou Sabally raises the team's championship profile and reunites the star forward with her former Oregon teammate Sabrina Ionescu.NYC Today

The New York Liberty have signed star free agent Satou Sabally to a multiyear contract, reuniting her with former Oregon teammate Sabrina Ionescu. This splashy move leaves no doubt about the Liberty's championship aspirations for the upcoming season.

Why it matters

The Liberty have been pursuing Sabally for two years, finally landing the marquee free agent. Her addition to a roster that already includes Ionescu and other talented players raises the Liberty's championship profile and puts pressure on the team to compete for a title this season.

The details

After missing out on Sabally a year ago when she joined the Phoenix Mercury, the Liberty were able to sign the star forward to a multiyear deal. Sabally's arrival reunites her with her former Oregon teammate Ionescu, creating a formidable duo that the Liberty hope can lead them to a WNBA championship.

  • The Liberty signed Sabally on Saturday, April 11, 2026.

The players

Satou Sabally

A star forward who has previously played for the Phoenix Mercury and is now joining the New York Liberty on a multiyear contract.

Sabrina Ionescu

The star point guard for the New York Liberty, who previously played with Sabally at the University of Oregon.

New York Liberty

The WNBA franchise based in New York City that has signed Satou Sabally in free agency, reuniting her with Sabrina Ionescu.

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What they’re saying

“This move shows the Liberty's commitment to winning a championship this season. Bringing in a talent like Satou Sabally raises the team's ceiling and puts pressure on them to compete for a title.”

— Madeline Kenney, New York Post Sports Reporter

What’s next

The Liberty will look to integrate Sabally into their lineup and build chemistry with Ionescu as they prepare for the upcoming WNBA season with championship aspirations.

The takeaway

The Liberty's signing of Satou Sabally is a clear statement of intent, as the team goes all-in on winning a WNBA championship this season by reuniting two star players from the University of Oregon.