The New York Liberty will cap off their 2025 preseason with a special exhibition game against Japan’s Toyota Antelopes at Matthew Knight Arena in Eugene, Oregon. This matchup holds deep significance for Liberty stars Sabrina Ionescu and Nyara Sabally, both former Oregon Ducks returning to their collegiate home court. The game, scheduled for Monday, May 12, at 10 p.m. ET, will be broadcast live on Liberty Live and My9.
For Ionescu, this return to Eugene offers a poignant moment of closure. Her senior season in 2020 was abruptly ended by the COVID-19 pandemic, halting a promising run toward a national championship. Now, as a WNBA champion, she embraces this opportunity to play once more in front of the passionate Duck fans who supported her collegiate journey. In honor of her contributions, Eugene Mayor Kaarin Knudson has declared Monday as “Sabrina Ionescu Day.”
Sabally shares in the excitement, expressing her enthusiasm about playing again at Matthew Knight Arena. She recently had her rookie contract extended through the 2026 season, reflecting the Liberty’s confidence in her continued development.
The Liberty’s preseason has been a period of experimentation and adjustment. In their opener, they faced a 94-86 loss to the Connecticut Sun, with key players like Breanna Stewart sitting out. Stewart is expected to make her preseason debut in this game, albeit under a minutes restriction due to recent knee surgery.
This exhibition also serves as a critical evaluation point for players vying for final roster spots. Rookies such as Jaylyn Sherrod and Esmery Martinez have shown promise, with Sherrod’s defensive prowess and Martinez’s versatility catching attention.
The Toyota Antelopes, champions of the Women’s Japan Basketball League, bring an international flair to the matchup. Coached by former WNBA player Yuko Oga, the team embodies a spirit of challenge and growth. Their participation underscores the WNBA’s expanding global reach and the Liberty’s commitment to fostering international basketball relationships.
Beyond the game, the Liberty have engaged in community events throughout the weekend, led by Ionescu’s SI20 Foundation. These activities highlight the organization’s dedication to community involvement and the personal connections players maintain with their roots.
As the Liberty prepare to defend their WNBA title, this final preseason game offers both a heartfelt homecoming and a strategic tune-up. Fans can anticipate a blend of nostalgia, competitive spirit, and a glimpse into the team’s evolving dynamics as they head into the regular season.
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