This year’s WNBA All-Star Game was a one-sided affair. Team Collier jumped out to a 49-36 lead in the first quarter, and at one point, Napheesa Collier’s team was up 97-70. For fans who shelled out big bucks for this highly anticipated exhibition game, this was more of a bulldozing than a competition.
New York Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu was asked to give her two cents on the one-sided affair, and the All-Star didn’t hold back.
Sabrina Ionescu Calls Out League for Lack of Rest Time Between All-Star Game and Regular Season
Being a professional in the world of women’s basketball is not an easy task. The compensation is significantly lower than other professional sports leagues, players regularly play internationally to compensate for low wages, and they usually look for endorsements to supplement their income. The schedule is rigorous, and it can sometimes take a toll on players.
Following the All-Star Game, Ionescu spoke about WNBA All-Stars’ challenges and what needs to change to help players be more competitive at the prestigious event.
“Obviously, it’s fun. It probably would’ve been a little bit more competitive if teams didn’t play in such a short amount of days,” said Ionescu. “Obviously, into our CBA … All-Stars don’t really have a break. We finish, we get on a flight the next day, we’re here. Jam-packed weekend, wanting to pour into the fans, show up to the events. Do 3-point contests, skills contest … and fly back to practice and play in three days.”
Sabrina Ionescu says the All-Star Game would’ve been “more competitive” if there was a longer break before the regular-season resumes.
Games restart on Tuesday.
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The WNBA season is gruelling, and players need ample time to recover and prepare for the second half. The All-Star Game took place on Saturday at 8:30 p.m. EST. The season will restart on Tuesday when the Los Angeles Sparks take on the Washington Mystics at 7:30 p.m. EST.
“As players, we want to be able to come out here during this time and put on a great show for the fans, but also take care of our bodies,” added Ionescu. “I think obviously that’s something as players we got to continue to stand on.”
Ionescu participated in her fourth career All-Star Game and competing on the Team Clark side. The gifted shooter had a rare off night, shooting 4-of-8 and recording just 12 points in the game, significantly lower than the 18.7 points she averaged during the regular season.
Players are currently in the midst of attempting to finalize a new collective bargaining agreement with the league, and one of the issues that has come up is committing full-time to the WNBA (over other leagues). This could be an issue that comes up down the line as WNBA players look to secure a more favorable schedule.
