The Unrivaled season 2 has generated a lot of hype and features many talented WNBA stars, ensuring another successful season for the 3-on-3 league. Even though the league introduced two new teams and added more stars to the rosters, a few names from the inaugural season will not be part of this edition. One such famous name is Sabrina Ionescu, who played for the Phantom BC.
The Unrivaled relies on Paige Bueckers and Cameron Brink to maintain the entertainment value and fan following; it will definitely miss a player of Ionescu’s status. In a recent interaction, the 25-year-old opened up on the reasons for her absence.
Sabrina Ionescu Talks About Her Absence In Unrivaled Season 2
The 3-on-3 basketball format requires fast gameplay, efficient shooting abilities, and top-notch defensive capabilities. The former Oregon star was one such player who had all these qualities and thrived in her debut season. But sadly, she opted out of season 2, even before the roster announcements.
Talking about the reason, Ionescu said, “While I’m disappointed I couldn’t play this season, I’ll be rooting for the Phantom. I’m looking forward to working with Unrivaled through content and broadcast opportunities and continuing to support the league’s success.”
Latest news from Unrivaled on Phantom guard Sabrina Ionescu, who wasn't able to participate on in-court activities due to injury sustained in the 2025 #WNBA season. pic.twitter.com/Cn5KAe2ufT
— Aya Abdeen (@ayabdeen) January 8, 2026
Ionescu starred for the Phantom BC in the inaugural season, averaging 18.2 points, seven rebounds, and 4.1 assists per game, but struggled to put them in the playoffs. The side finished with a 4-10 record.
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In the 2026 season, the side lost the opening game and featured players such as Kelsey Plum, Dana Evans, Kiki Iriafen, Natasha Cloud, Tiffany Hayes, and Aliyah Boston. Just like the Liberty star, Satou Sabally also missed the season, who was part of the Phantom team. Sabally shared a cryptic message after an indefinite Unrivaled absence due to a concussion.
The Liberty player, though, will be busy in the offseason, even though she is not in the unrivalled league.
Sabrina Ionescu Joins Bay FC NWSL As Advisor And Investor
The superstar guard is one of the most followed and successful WNBA athletes, earning a place as an adviser to the new NWSL club, Bay FC. She initially became the investor of the side, but then, as per the league’s new initiative, became the adviser for the side’s marketing side.
At the time of investment, the WNBA champion said, “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.”
Women’s sport is certainly on the rise, led by the WNBA league and players. There is no surprise in seeing the player thrive in such a role and guide her new team to reach a similar level of success.