Nyara Sabally Takes Center Stage with Toronto Tempo in Match Against Liberty

Nyara Sabally, once a lesser-known player in New York, is now making waves as a key player for the expansion team Toronto Tempo. Drafted as a top-five pick, she spent her early career overshadowed by future Hall of Famers. Now, she’s ready to showcase her talent against the Liberty in her first game since being selected in the expansion draft.

“I want to win and I want to play well against her. Of course,” stated Jonquel Jones, who mentored Sabally during their time together with the Liberty. “I’m happy for her to be able to step into that new role, and I think it was time for her.” However, Jones made it clear that once the game begins, all friendships are set aside.

Heading into this matchup, Sabally boasts impressive averages of 11.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 1.6 steals, and 1.4 blocks in just over 25 minutes per game—significantly higher than her previous averages of 3.9 points and 3.3 rebounds in her three seasons with the Liberty. Last week, she had a standout performance, scoring 29 points on 11-of-14 shooting, while also contributing six rebounds and two assists.

After a difficult recovery from a knee injury that sidelined her during the 2022 season, Sabally is finally realizing her potential. Breanna Stewart expressed her support, noting, “While it’s bittersweet that Nyara left, it’s an opportunity for her to really fulfill a bigger role.”

The Liberty recognized Sabally’s talent but couldn’t protect her during the expansion draft, which allowed Toronto to select her. The inclusion of Sandy Brondello, the former Liberty head coach, on the Tempo’s roster made the transition easier for Sabally. In addition, the team has also signed other players previously associated with the Liberty, showcasing their desire for talent.

Wednesday’s game marks the Liberty’s first in the Commissioner’s Cup pool play, with six games scheduled through June 17. The competition offers a prize pool of $500,000, and each game contributes to donations for designated nonprofit organizations. The Liberty are supporting the African American Policy Forum, a group dedicated to addressing structural inequality, adding an important cause to the competitive spirit of the Cup.

Liberty head coach Chris DeMarco highlighted the significance of this tournament format, stating, “It just adds some excitement to it. I think everybody enjoys those in-season tournaments. It matters to the players and it matters to us.”