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Liberty Star Ionescu Out; Practice Continues

What's happened

Sabrina Ionescu has not played this season due to a back injury. She is progressing in rehab and remains questionable for the Liberty’s upcoming road trip, with coach Chris DeMarco confirming soreness persists after recent practice. The team is active in Commissioner’s Cup action.

What's behind the headline?

Why this matters

  • Ionescu’s health affects the Liberty’s depth as they push through a congested schedule.
  • Pauline Astier has stepped in and is contributing solid numbers, highlighting the team’s reliance on developing players.
  • The back issue, if persistent, could force lineup adjustments and impact late-season prospects.

What to watch next

  • Will Ionescu be cleared for the next road trip?
  • How will the back soreness influence rotations against Indiana and beyond?

How we got here

Ionescu has missed the first part of the season with a left foot injury and has been dealing with a back issue. She returned to practice recently but has not yet been cleared for game action. New York is managing a list of injuries as it finishes a seven-game homestand and prepares for trips.

Our analysis

AP News, NY Post, NY Post

Go deeper

  • Will Sabrina Ionescu be cleared for the next road trip?
  • How is Pauline Astier affecting the Liberty’s rotation?

More on these topics

  • Sabrina Ionescu - American basketball player

    Sabrina Elaine Ionescu is an American professional women's basketball player for the New York Liberty of the Women's National Basketball Association. She played college basketball for the Oregon Ducks.


Latest Headlines from Nourish | The Nourish Mission