New York Liberty star Satou Sabally has been officially ruled out for the remainder of the WNBA season as a result of the head injury she suffered last June.
Sabally has not played for the Liberty since suffering a concussion during their showdown with the Las Vegas Aces on June 23. In fact, she even stepped away from the team last month, with New York changing her injury designation from “concussion” to a “head” injury.
The 28-year-old forward also had to withdraw from participating in the FIBA Women’s Basketball World Cup because of her injury, saying that she needs to prioritize her “health first” and “full recovery.”
Eakin Howard-Imagn Images via Reuters Connect
With the update, Sabally finishes the campaign with averages of 10.4 points, 2.8 rebounds and 1.9 assists in 13 games.
Sabally’s season-ending news naturally sparked plenty of reactions, with many showing their concern for the Liberty star. After all, it’s the second head injury she has suffered in less than a year after also sustaining one during the WNBA Finals with the Phoenix Mercury last season.
“Unfortunately, I think we all knew this already. I hope she doesn’t have permanent damage or lifelong issues. Please rest and get well,” a commenter wrote on Bleacher Report’s Instagram post about Sabally’s condition.
“This is so sad. She was BALLING when the first injury happened. I really hope she is ok long term. And I hope she has a lawyer for some compensation from Mercury and WNBA,” a poster added.
“PRAYING FOR HEALING -TAKE NECESSARY TIME FOR 100% healing,” a fan noted.
Several others expressed belief that Sabally should consider retirement instead of risking her health.
“This ain’t good. Retirement may be the move if this continues. Health comes first,” a concerned supporter stated.
A follower shared, “I hate to say this as I am a satou fan since she was drafted to Dallas..but with all the injuries, it might be best for her to call it a career.”
“She may need to consider retirement health is top priority and if it doesn’t feel right then she should do what’s best for her,” a sixth social media user said.
Sabally herself has yet to address the season-ending update. For now, though, plenty of eyes will be on her as she navigates her recovery.
