Injury ruled out Napheesa Collier from Season 2 of the Unrivaled league, but she attended the games as co-owner of the league. Other big-name players missing the league are Angel Reese, Satou Sabally, and Sabrina Ionescu.
While every absentee is working on their fitness, Ionescu stunned fans by making a surprise entry in the 3-on-3 league. Though she didn’t take the court, she was backing her Phantom side from the box.
Sabrina Ionescu Attends Unrivaled Game
The Liberty star is one of the most followed WNBA athletes and is admired by many for her exceptional gameplay and engaging off-court behavior.
Ionescu took over the mic and covered the Phantom BC game against the Lunar Owls BC. Working for truTV, the guard played a crucial role in her analysis and coverage of the game. Ionescu already surprised the Oregon fanbase with her undercover appearance at the NCAA game.
Looks like Sabrina Ionescu will be on the mic tonight for @Unrivaledwbb during the 7:30 pm et matchup between Lunar Owls and Phantom BC. pic.twitter.com/hndqwrX0QA
— Jackie Powell (she/her) (@ClassicJpow) January 11, 2026
Incidentally, she even attended the Ducks’ game against a top side, USC, and encouraged the team to a surprise win. Now at the unrivaled league, her presence encouraged the team as they dominated the proceedings, winning the game with a huge margin. Kelsey Plum drops a major Unrivaled milestone as Phantom BC torches Lunar Owls.
Scroll to continue reading
Trending WNBA News
Apart from the Sparks guard, Aliyah Boston recorded a double-double to lead the side to its first win of the season. While fans were searching for the reason for her absence, the league only cleared the doubt, releasing a statement.
Sabrina Ionescu Provides Reason For Her Absence
The former Oregon shone in her debut season for the Phantom BC. But sadly, she opted out of season 2, even before the roster announcements.
Talking about skipping the season, 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
While the player will be prioritizing her fitness for the WNBA season, fans certainly miss her in the Unrivaled league.