Former Oregon Ducks star Sabrina Ionescu has dealt with her share of injuries early in her WNBA career, but that hasn’t stopped her from recognizing greatness when she sees it.
After the Indiana Fever snapped the New York Liberty’s undefeated streak, Ionescu offered high praise to rookie sensation Caitlin Clark — even in the aftermath of a tough loss.
The highly anticipated showdown on Saturday delivered everything fans hoped for as two of the league’s brightest young guards went shot-for-shot. Ionescu erupted for 34 points, drilling four 3-pointers and keeping the Liberty in striking distance throughout the night. But Clark, returning from injury, matched her every step — and then some — finishing with 32 points, nine assists, eight rebounds and a remarkable seven threes.
Despite the Liberty falling for the first time this season, Ionescu’s respect for Clark only grew stronger.
“We know what a great shooter she is, and I think we just gave her too many easy ones,” Ionescu said after the game. “Obviously, she has great range and her ability to get her shot off is really impressive, especially with missing some games.”
For two players who have carried massive expectations since college, the matchup felt like a preview of future classics — a duel defined by shot-making, poise, and mutual admiration.
And while the Fever celebrated a statement win, the night ultimately showcased something bigger: two elite competitors pushing each other toward greatness, even in the early chapters of their WNBA journeys.
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