Satou Sabally’s Departure from Dallas: What It Means for the WNBA
Satou Sabally, one of the WNBA’s top free agents, has officially announced her departure from the Dallas Wings. In a candid interview, Sabally expressed her gratitude to the organization for making Dallas her home for the past few years. However, she confirmed that she has already played her last game with the Wings and is now working closely with the team to find her next destination.
This announcement marks a major shift in the WNBA landscape. Sabally, a versatile forward and one of the league’s rising stars, has been a key player for Dallas over the past five seasons. Despite facing injuries throughout her career, Sabally’s performance has been remarkable, averaging 15.7 points, 7 rebounds, and 3.6 assists per game. In 2024, after recovering from a shoulder injury, she posted career-high numbers, including an impressive 45.2% shooting from beyond the arc.
Why the Move?
Reports suggest that tension between Sabally and the Wings organization may have played a role in her decision. Sabally has only signed one-year deals with the team, never committing long-term, and her last contract was worth $195,000—a significant sum but perhaps not reflective of her value as a player. As the Wings undergo a shakeup with new management and other free agency challenges, it seems both sides agreed it was time for a fresh start.
The Contenders: Liberty vs. Fever
Two teams have emerged as frontrunners for Sabally: the New York Liberty and the Indiana Fever.
New York Liberty: A Star-Studded Option
The Liberty, reigning WNBA champions, present an attractive destination for Sabally. Their roster includes superstars like Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones. A reunion with her college teammate Ionescu and her sister Nyara Sabally, who already plays for the Liberty, adds a personal touch to the appeal.
However, the Liberty face significant salary cap challenges. With three max-contract players, it would require creative maneuvering—such as a pay cut by Stewart or Sabally accepting a smaller deal—to make the move possible. Additionally, New York’s stacked forward rotation might limit Sabally’s opportunities for a starring role.
Indiana Fever: A Team on the Rise
The Indiana Fever, on the other hand, offer a different kind of opportunity. Armed with over $650,000 in cap space, the Fever can afford to offer Sabally a max contract. The team is undergoing a transformation under new leadership, including head coach Stephanie White and general manager Amber Cox.
With a young and talented core featuring A’ja Boston, Kelsey Mitchell, and potentially Caitlin Clark (should she join the team), Indiana has the makings of a future dynasty.
Sabally’s skill set—versatility, scoring, and defensive prowess—aligns perfectly with the Fever’s needs. She would likely take on a major role, becoming a centerpiece of a team that could dominate the league for years to come.
The Bigger Picture
Sabally’s decision will not only impact her career but could also reshape the WNBA landscape. If she joins the Fever, it would transform them into instant championship contenders, while a move to the Liberty could create an almost unbeatable superteam.
Either way, her choice will send ripples through the league, influencing how teams approach free agency and roster construction for years to come.
As the basketball world waits for Sabally’s next move, one thing is clear: her decision will define the next chapter of her career and the future of women’s basketball. Stay tuned—it’s about to get exciting.
