The New York Liberty will be short-handed again when they face the Las Vegas Aces in Tuesday’s Commissioner’s Cup game. Forward Satou Sabally has been ruled out after entering concussion protocol, her third straight missed game.
Sabally took an elbow to the face from NaLyssa Smith during the Liberty’s 87-76 win over the Aces on June 23. She initially returned to that game but was pulled later after showing concussion-like symptoms. The team officially placed her in the protocol on June 25, according to Annie Costabile of The Athletic.
The timing stings. This isn’t just any regular-season game. The Commissioner’s Cup carries bonus money and a trophy, and these two teams have a real rivalry brewing. The Aces and Liberty met in last year’s WNBA Finals, and both enter Tuesday’s game with title aspirations.
Sabally has been a strong addition to New York’s rotation since coming over in an offseason trade. In 13 games this season she’s averaging 10.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists while shooting 45.9% from the field and 38.5% from three. Not star numbers, but solid production from a role player who spaces the floor and defends multiple positions.
On the other side, the Aces might also be missing their anchor. A’ja Wilson is listed as questionable with a right leg injury. Wilson is the reigning MVP and the league’s leading scorer. If she can’t go, that changes the whole dynamic of the game.
“Commissioner’s Cup injury reports,” Costabile posted. “Aces: A’ja Wilson (right leg) questionable. Liberty: Satou Sabally (concussion protocol) out.”
The Liberty haven’t said much about Sabally’s recovery timeline. Concussions are tricky and the team is clearly being cautious. That makes sense — you don’t rush a player back, especially not for a midseason cup game. New York has a break after Tuesday; they don’t play again until Friday, July 3, against the Minnesota Lynx. That gives Sabally some extra days to clear protocol if she’s close.
For now, the Liberty will lean on their other weapons. Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones are still there. Sabrina Ionescu is still there. But losing Sabally takes away some depth, and against a team like the Aces every rotation piece matters.
Tipoff is Tuesday night. Wilson’s status will probably be a game-time decision. Sabally’s return date remains unclear.
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