Diana Taurasi praises Sabrina Ionescu as ‘the ultimate competitor’

Sabrina Ionescu’s impact was instrumental in guiding the New York Liberty to the 2023 WNBA Finals. (Sarah Stier/Getty Images)

An extraordinary figure in the WNBA had nothing but glowing accolades for New York Liberty’s guard, Sabrina Ionescu.

Diana Taurasi, a seasoned player from the Phoenix Mercury, referred to Ionescu as “the ultimate competitor” during a session with media at USA Basketball’s fall training camp. Taurasi, 41, and Ionescu, 25, are actively engaging in the camp and exhibition games, gearing up for the 2024 Olympics in Paris.

“Not many players captivate me the way Sabrina does,” Taurasi expressed. “From her competitive spirit to her unwavering dedication, and her serious approach to the game both on and off the court — I admire it all.”

Taurasi was particularly impressed by Ionescu’s ability to keep her attention on basketball and not get sidetracked by external elements such as high-level endorsements or a signature shoe line, a true testament to her focus and commitment. Ionescu played a pivotal role in guiding the Liberty to the WNBA Finals in 2023.

Recounting an incident from 2019, Taurasi reminisced about an exhibition game against Oregon where Team USA was outclassed by the Ducks, with Ionescu on their roster.

“The way she played against Tennessee is why she’s gonna be on this team for a long, long time,” Taurasi remarked. “She’s the ultimate competitor and the ultimate teammate, always looking to distribute, always looking to make the next connection.”

Responding to Taurasi’s accolades, Ionescu expressed, “My idol 🙏🏼,” signifying her deep respect for Taurasi.