Sabally and Jones Commit Long-Term to Liberty in Major WNBA Signings

The New York Liberty have secured key pieces to their championship core with the multiyear contract agreements of forward Satou Sabally and center Jonquel Jones. Sabally, who played with the Phoenix Mercury last season, and Jones, a former Connecticut Sun standout, are both set to return to New York for the 2026 season and beyond. Their decisions signal the team's commitment to building a sustainable contender after winning the 2025 WNBA title.

Sabally, 27, averaged 16.3 points, 5.9 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 1.3 steals for the Mercury in 2025, earning her third All-Star selection. She was a key contributor in the postseason, averaging 19 points and 7 rebounds per game before suffering a concussion in Game 3 of the WNBA Finals. The injury caused her to miss the final game and kept her sidelined from the January Unrivaled exhibition. Her return to New York reunites her with Sabrina Ionescu, her former Oregon teammate and fellow Liberty guard.

Jones, a five-time All-Star, is entering her fourth season with the Liberty after spending six with the Connecticut Sun. She averaged 13.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists in 2025, though injuries limited her to 31 games. Jones made WNBA history in 2021 by becoming the first player to win MVP, Sixth Woman of the Year, and Most Improved Player in the same season. Her return gives New York depth and experience in the frontcourt.

Sabally’s decision to rejoin the Liberty was driven by the team’s championship culture and belief in its long-term title potential. Jones, who has played a pivotal role in New York’s recent success, is also locked in for the future. Both players bring a winning mentality and elite skill sets that align with the Liberty’s vision.

The Liberty’s roster moves also include Ionescu, who has indicated she intends to re-sign with the team, and Breanna Stewart, who has already announced her return. Sabally will also reunite with Leonie Fiebich, a teammate from her time at Valencia Basket during WNBA offseasons.

The Liberty’s ability to retain and re-sign top talent shows the strength of their organization and the appeal of their championship culture. With Sabally and Jones under contract, the Liberty are positioning themselves as a dominant force in the 2026 WNBA season and beyond. The team is expected to finalize all remaining roster decisions by the end of the month.