Former Oregon Stars Ionescu and Sabally Face Injury Hurdles Ahead of WNBA Return to Portland

Former Oregon Ducks stars Sabrina Ionescu and Satou Sabally are scheduled to return to Portland for the New York Liberty versus Portland Fire WNBA game on Tuesday night. The matchup takes place at Moda Center, marking the Liberty's only scheduled regular-season trip to the state barring a potential playoff appearance.

However, the anticipated presence of the duo faces significant uncertainty due to current injury reports. Ionescu, who has spent six seasons with the Liberty since being drafted first overall in 2020, is ruled out for the contest. She sustained an ankle injury during preseason activities and has consequently missed the team's first two games of the season.

Satou Sabally presents a different scenario, having yet to make her season debut due to a cyst injury. Following her signing with the Liberty this offseason, she remains listed as a game-time decision for Tuesday's match. While her participation is not confirmed, the possibility remains that she could take the court against the Portland Fire.

The Liberty enter the game led by former MVP Breanna Stewart and 2024 Finals MVP Jonquel Jones. Stewart and Jones have been instrumental in guiding the team through the early stages of the campaign, stepping up in the absence of their injured teammates.

The Portland Fire, an expansion team, are looking to bounce back after losing their season opener to the Chicago Sky. This Tuesday fixture represents their second game of the season, with the potential for a rematch scheduled for Thursday in Portland.

Despite the injury concerns, the return to Oregon holds significant interest for local fans. The pair starred together for the Ducks from 2017 to 2020 before entering the 2020 WNBA Draft. If both players are unavailable for the Tuesday game, Duck supporters may have to wait another year to see the duo play in the state.