Nyara Sabally’s career hasn’t followed a straight path, but every detour has shaped her into the player she is today: strong, thoughtful, and resilient
As the 2025 season approaches, she stands on the brink of what could be her most impactful season yet—with her body aligned, her mindset sharpened, and her eyes on the prize.
As he embarks on this new phase at Iona, Lamin Sabally has the opportunity to distinguish himself and perhaps become the next big name in the Sabally lineage.
If he brings the same determination, humility, and love for the game that his sisters embody, his future looks promising.
College basketball is not only about stats—it’s about growth, maturity, and discovering one’s identity as a player.
With his family’s support, a strong foundation behind him, and new challenges ahead, Lamin is poised to take the next leap.
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Nyara Sabally Celebrates Brother Lamin’s Move to Iona
A Family Bound by Basketball
On Wednesday, rising basketball talent Lamin Sabally announced a major step in his collegiate career: transferring to Iona University.1
Lamin, who previously played for the University of the Incarnate Word, made the news official through a heartfelt Instagram post. Accompanied by photos of himself sporting Iona’s jerseys in various colors, he wrote:
“After a lot of thought and prayer, I’m excited to say I’m committing to Iona. Grateful for everyone who’s been part of this journey. Let’s get right 🩶”
This decision marks a pivotal moment for the young athlete, as he looks to continue developing his game under new leadership and in a new program.
Sisterly Support From a WNBA Star
Lamin’s announcement didn’t go unnoticed by his family—especially not by his sister Nyara Sabally, a standout player for the New York Liberty in the WNBA.
Nyara promptly commented on her brother’s post with a series of emojis—”🙂↕️🙂↕️🗽”—which, though subtle, conveyed joy, pride, and a New York connection that now bridges their athletic journeys.
Nyara’s simple yet heartfelt gesture highlighted not only her unwavering support but also the close-knit nature of the Sabally family. In the competitive world of sports, familial encouragement can often be the cornerstone of an athlete’s confidence and growth.
A Deeply Athletic Family Legacy
The Sabally name is already well-known in basketball circles. The family hails from Germany and includes six siblings: Nyara, Satou, Lamin, Marabie, Khadija, and Amadou.
Among them, Nyara and Satou have become household names in women’s basketball, both having played at the University of Oregon before heading to the WNBA.
Lamin, continuing in the same footsteps, is now making strides in men’s college basketball. Their shared dedication to the sport points to a strong family culture rooted in discipline, determination, and unity.
Nyara Sabally: Iona University
A New Chapter
Joining the Iona Gaels will allow Lamin to compete in a respected mid-major program.2
Known for its basketball tradition and recent NCAA tournament appearances, Iona offers a competitive platform where Lamin can carve out a significant role.
Under the guidance of Iona’s coaching staff, which has previously nurtured NBA-level talent, Lamin will have every chance to grow as a player.
The move signals not just a fresh start, but a declaration of ambition from a young man determined to leave his own mark.
The Power of Sibling Influence
Athletic siblings often influence each other’s development, and in the Sabally family, that influence is profound.
Watching Nyara and Satou rise through the ranks must have instilled a powerful sense of purpose in Lamin. Their work ethic, resilience through injuries, and achievements on the court serve as daily motivation.
Nyara’s public show of support is more than just a sweet sibling moment—it’s a reminder that every athlete needs a strong support system.
Whether it’s a pep talk, a comment on social media, or cheering from the sidelines, sibling encouragement plays a crucial role in mental and emotional well-being.
Cultural Roots and Global Identity
Born to a Gambian father and German mother, the Sabally family embodies a rich multicultural identity. Their background has allowed them to embrace diverse opportunities—both in Europe and in the U.S.
Their experience navigating international and domestic basketball landscapes gives them a unique perspective on competition and growth.
This blend of cultural influences has not only shaped their character but also their approach to the game.
Lamin, like his sisters, brings that global mentality to the court—a blend of European fundamentals and American athleticism.
A Shared Vision of Success
- What’s clear in Lamin’s journey—and the Sabally family’s story as a whole—is the presence of a shared vision.
- Each sibling is pursuing excellence in their own way, but they remain interconnected. Success is not viewed in isolation but as a collective journey.
- When one rises, the others lift them higher. That’s why Nyara’s quick reaction to Lamin’s announcement was so meaningful. It’s not just support—it’s solidarity.
- The Saballys are well on their way to establishing a family legacy in the world of basketball.
- While Satou has already made All-Star appearances in the WNBA and Nyara continues to shine with the Liberty, Lamin’s rise could further extend the family’s influence into the men’s game.
- If Lamin’s time at Iona leads to individual success and possibly a professional future, it would mark another chapter in what is already an extraordinary family sports story.
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Nyara Sabally Ready for a New Chapter with the Liberty in 2025
As the New York Liberty gear up for the 2025 WNBA season, forward Nyara Sabally is entering training camp with renewed optimism, a clean bill of health, and a fresh perspective on her career.3
For a player whose journey has been defined by resilience, Sabally’s readiness is more than just physical—it’s mental, emotional, and tactical.
Sabally’s story has been marked by adversity. During her college career at Oregon, she suffered two ACL tears in her right knee, both of which threatened her long-term future in the game.
Those setbacks sidelined her during crucial development periods and raised early concerns about her durability at the professional level.
Despite being drafted fifth overall in the 2022 WNBA Draft by the Liberty, Sabally missed her entire rookie season recovering from knee surgery. Then, in the 2024 season, a back injury forced her to sit out for over a month, cutting short another opportunity to establish herself.
However, 2025 offers a fresh slate. At 25 years old, Sabally says she’s feeling as good as ever and is embracing new approaches to maintain her health.
“My Body Feels Good”: Sabally on Health and Longevity
Speaking to NY Liberty Fan TV during training camp at Barclays Center, Sabally emphasized how much more in tune she is with her body now.
“I mean, obviously, like just taking care of your body, getting in the weight room,” she said. “I feel like I’ve been since my knee injuries; I’ve just been kind of doing the same stuff, and I mean, my body feels good. I feel healthy, and it’s just kind of managing your body and your load.”
The emphasis on load management and consistent strength training reflects a shift in Sabally’s approach. Rather than focusing only on recovery after injury, she’s now proactive—looking to prevent injuries before they occur.
The Physical Toll of High-Level Basketball
Injuries in basketball, especially lower-body injuries, are common, but they can be especially devastating for players like Sabally, who rely on size, agility, and mobility.
At 6-foot-5, she plays a physically demanding position that requires both vertical and lateral movement under constant contact.
The ACL injuries she suffered in college are among the most serious for an athlete. Returning from one torn ACL is challenging enough, but to do it twice—and then also battle back issues—has required patience, dedication, and top-tier rehab support.
Nyara Sabally: Lessons from Setbacks
A Stronger, Smarter Player
Sabally doesn’t speak about her injuries as setbacks anymore. Instead, she sees them as learning experiences that have changed her relationship with her body and the game.
“You learn to listen to your body. I used to think pushing through pain was toughness. Now I know real toughness is knowing when to rest, when to work, and how to build smart.”
Her strength regimen includes everything from glute activation and core stability work to mobility drills and stretching routines.
She also credits the Liberty’s performance staff for helping tailor a program that focuses not only on return-to-play benchmarks but on sustained health across an entire season.
A Potential Breakout Year?
While Sabally has yet to have a fully healthy WNBA season, her talent is undeniable. During her time at Oregon, she averaged 14.2 points and 7.5 rebounds per game, showcasing a versatile skillset that includes post scoring, rebounding, and rim protection.
In the few games she did appear in last season for New York, Sabally showed flashes of her potential—running the floor, defending multiple positions, and adding valuable minutes off the bench. With her body feeling better than in previous seasons, 2025 could be her breakout campaign.
Chemistry and Fit in a Star-Studded Liberty Lineup
The Liberty are entering the 2025 season with high expectations after their 2023 Finals appearance and 2024 playoff run.
With stars like Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Courtney Vandersloot, New York has one of the most stacked rosters in the league.
For Sabally, that means earning minutes in a rotation full of elite players—but it also means she has less pressure to do everything, which can actually aid in her long-term health.
“I can focus on my role. I don’t have to force things,” Sabally said. “I’m surrounded by All-Stars. That means I can just do what I do best—defend, rebound, run the floor, and stay solid.”
Nyara Sabally: The Mental Side of Recovery
Injuries don’t just test the body—they test the mind. Sabally acknowledged that coming back from two ACL tears and a back injury wasn’t only about the physical rehab.
The mental toll of re-injury anxiety, fear of underperforming, and self-doubt can be just as intense.
To deal with that, she’s turned to sports psychologists, meditation, and a daily gratitude practice that helps her stay grounded.
“It’s easy to spiral when things aren’t going your way,” Sabally shared. “What’s helped me is staying in the moment, focusing on what I can control. Every time I step on the court, I’m grateful now. That’s something I didn’t always feel before.”
Role Model for Perseverance
Sabally’s journey resonates with young athletes, especially those who’ve dealt with injuries.
Her honesty, vulnerability, and commitment to the game make her an inspiration for many, particularly in a league where longevity is hard-earned.
In addition to her athletic contributions, Sabally’s off-court presence is growing.
She’s been involved in youth basketball camps, health advocacy programs, and even participated in a panel on women’s sports medicine, where she spoke candidly about the unique challenges female athletes face in injury recovery.
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Eyes on the Prize: Championship Aspirations
The Liberty aren’t just playing for playoff positioning—they’re all-in on a championship run.
With the return of a healthy Sabally, New York gains another frontcourt option who can defend the rim, space the floor, and absorb critical minutes when stars rest.
Coach Sandy Brondello has praised Sabally’s work ethic and believes she can be an X-factor this year.
“She’s been through so much, and to see her smiling, moving well, and confident—it gives us all energy,” Brondello said. “She brings toughness and length we really need.”
For Sabally, 2025 isn’t just about health—it’s about proving she belongs, that she can be a consistent contributor on a championship-level team. With her injuries behind her and her mind in the right place, the former top draft pick is finally in a position to show the league what she’s made of.
“This is the year I’ve been working toward for a long time,” she said. “I’m ready.”
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