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Liberty's Sabrina Ionescu Emerges as Dark Horse MVP Candidate
9 Aug
Summary
- Napheesa Collier out with ankle injury, opening up MVP race
- Sabrina Ionescu averaging career-high 20 points per game
- Ionescu focused on leading Liberty to second straight WNBA title

As of August 9th, 2025, the race for the WNBA MVP award has become more intriguing with the injury to Napheesa Collier. In her absence, New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu has emerged as a dark horse candidate for the prestigious honor.
Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello has been vocal in her support for Ionescu, stating that the four-time All-Star should be "right up there" in the MVP conversation. However, Ionescu's primary focus this season is not on individual awards, but rather on leading the Liberty to a second straight WNBA championship.
Despite the Liberty's struggles with injuries, which have seen them play only two games at full strength, Ionescu has been a constant for the team. She has missed just one game due to a neck issue and has continued to carry the Liberty, who remain second in the league standings.
Ionescu has been on a tear since the All-Star break, averaging a career-high 20 points per game while also contributing 4.9 rebounds and 5.5 assists per contest. Her well-rounded play and ability to impact the game in multiple ways have made her a crucial part of the Liberty's success this season.
While the MVP award is certainly a possibility for Ionescu, she remains steadfast in her commitment to the team's ultimate goal of winning a championship. As she stated, "That's the top of everything" for her this season.