“I weighed out all my options and decided to do what’s best for me and my career. Being able to take part in a league that is the first of its kind with a historic deal and be on the ownership side of it is important for me,” said an excited Sabrina Ionescu, finally putting to rest the rumors about her joining Unrivaled. But, as the saying goes, ‘all good things must come to an end.’ And, in a twist, Sabrina’s time with Unrivaled has been cut short – at least, for this season.

Sabrina, who has been recovering from a thumb injury she picked up during the WNBA finals, was always a question mark for the Unrivaled. Yet, Sabrina, being Sabrina, refused to let the injury sideline her from a league that was proving to be a game changer and not just for her own career. And so, she suited up for the Phantom BC. However, her Unrivaled chapter has now been put on hold. According to Jackie Powell of Yahoo Sports, Sabrina’s next move won’t be on the Unrivaled court but on a plane to Asia – where she’ll be repping Nike on an exclusive tour.

Initially, even Sabrina was doubtful about committing to another demanding league, as she prioritized her precious off-season time with her husband. But besides Breanna Stewart’s infectious “Sab!” cheers at the Barclays Center, the promised flexible schedule ultimately sealed the deal.

So, is it really surprising to see her leave? Remember what she said when it was first announced that she’d be joining the league? “I have certain dates that I have to be gone for. They were very accommodating with things I already accepted and have to be gone for before I committed to the league.” The league knew about this from the beginning, so it wasn’t a shock to anyone involved with Phantom BC or Unrivaled.

Nonetheless, it is going to be a major blow for the Phantom team, who is at 3-8 with a -116 point differential. But the Unrivaled has already assigned a replacement for the outgoing Sabrina, and let’s hope that will do the trick it’s supposed to. Journalist Meghan Hall reported that Laces BC guard Natisha Hiedeman will step in for the reigning NBA champion. Hiedeman has appeared in nine games this season, averaging 7.4 points, 3.4 rebounds, and 2 assists.

Sabrina, who was averaging 18 points, 7 rebounds, and 4.1 assists during her time at Unrivaled, has been keeping busy off the court as well. Let’s dive into her latest investment!

Sabrina Ionescu becomes a part of the Bay FC ownership group

It’s always special when you are in a position to give back to the community that helped you grow. Sabrina took it up a notch when it was announced that she would be part of the ownership group of the newly founded NWSL team, Bay FC. Bay area’s favorite couldn’t hide her excitement, describing this opportunity as a “pinch me” moment.

She released a statement confirming that she will also serve as a commercial adviser. She’ll partner with the organization to craft their commercial strategy and help Bay FC athletes build their brand portfolios, “I am excited to join Bay FC as an investor and commercial advisor for the latest NWSL team” “I have full faith in the club’s vision and its potential to make a profound impact within and beyond women’s soccer. …  As someone with deep ties to the Bay Area, this opportunity holds even more significance, and I am truly honored to be a part of such a special endeavor to continue to grow women’s sports.”

These past 12 months have been very eventful for Sabrina. From battling it out in the 3-point contest with Bay Area’s adopted son Steph Curry to claiming her first WNBA championship, and now this new chapter with Bay FC. Who knows? Maybe we’ll see her suit up for the Valkyries soon, too. Hey, a man can dream, right?