MINNEAPOLIS — Sabrina Ionescu’s performance in Sunday’s playoff win reflected the challenges she has faced throughout the 2026 WNBA season as she works to regain consistency following injuries. The New York Liberty secured a 16-point victory at the Target Center, led by Breanna Stewart’s standout effort, but Ionescu’s contributions were more limited amid ongoing struggles with efficiency.

Ionescu ended the game with 13 points on 14 shots, six assists, and no rebounds. She appeared confident late in the fourth quarter after hitting a three-pointer and briefly engaging with the crowd before exiting the game with about 20 seconds remaining. While the Liberty’s supporting cast, including Leonie Fiebich, Jonquel Jones, and Pauline Astier, contributed key defensive stops and offensive plays, Ionescu’s impact fell short of the consistent level the team needs for a deep playoff run.

Head coach Chris DeMarco emphasized Ionescu’s central role to the team’s success, saying before the game, “We go as Sab goes.” However, he acknowledged that Sunday’s performance was indicative of a broader trend rather than an isolated issue. Ionescu has grappled with adjusting to a new system and role after missing the start of the season due to a foot injury and continuing to manage a back problem since her return. As a result, her shooting efficiency has been notably down this year.

Through the 2026 campaign, Ionescu averaged 14.6 points per game, the lowest since 2021, and converted just 29.5 percent of her three-point attempts, a marked decline from her career averages. Her production slipped further toward the end of the regular season, with a field goal percentage of 28.6 percent and three-point shooting at 29.2 percent across the final four games, during which she averaged 11.3 points.

Despite the offensive struggles, DeMarco praised Ionescu’s energy and resilience. “Sometimes we all do it as coaches, media, players — somebody gets injured, and it’s hard to just pop right back in and start where you left off, it’s difficult,” he said. “We’re not in this position without her. She’s won us some massive games, some late-game comebacks ... and we know she’s up for the challenge. This is what she does. She’s a clutch player, and playoff time, this is where she goes.”

The Liberty will look to lean on both Stewart’s historic level of play and Ionescu’s potential return to form as they continue through the postseason.