Satou Sabally played his last game in the Dallas Wings jersey.
The free agent confirmed to the media Thursday that his days with the franchise are over. Despite pressure from the Dallas front office, Sabally said she was eager to play elsewhere. “I have already expressed my gratitude to Dallas…” she told reporters.
Although it had been speculated in league circles that Sabally would explore free agency options, Sabally’s announcement significantly changes the WNBA free agency landscape. This begs the question: where could it reasonably land?
Here are five destinations that might make sense:
1. Liberty of New York
Satou Sabally. Nyara Sabally. Sabrina Ionescu. It’s a party with the Oregon Duck. CHARLATAN. CHARLATAN. CHARLATAN.
All right. Seriously, the opportunity to reunite with her sister Nyara *and* her college teammate Sabrina might be too good to pass up. Satou already got a taste of life in New York when she was spending time with Nyara and Sab. during the Liberty championship raceand it screams, DO IT! But then, a little voice whispers: “How? Well, that might be a bit complicated.
The Liberty *technically* need to re-sign Breanna Stewart *AND* afford a contract for Satou and other free agents. Satou will likely want a contract comparable to the one-year, $195,000 deal she signed with Dallas last season, if not more. But if the Liberty aren’t afraid to get creative, this is a home run signing.
2. Indiana fever
Fever fans have been theorizing for months about a partnership between Satou Sabally and the franchise, practically making this day a reality. However, Indiana has a few things that could make this decision interesting.
The team made it clear that their top priority was keep Kelsey Mitchell (also free agent). If they keep Mitchell, the focus will be on what to do with NaLyssa Smith. Smith was in and out of the starting lineup last season, but he was productive on the field. However, if Smith’s time in Indy is over, the team could trade him and insert Satou into that role.
The new starting lineup consists of Caitlin Clark, Lexie Hull, Kelsey Mitchell, Aliyah Boston and Satou Sabally, creating one of the top five starts in the league. PHEW. Add in new head coach Stephanie White, and now the Fever could win a first-round playoff series and beyond.
3. The Aces of Las Vegas
Kelsey Plum may have played out her final days in an Aces uniform.
I have repeatedly said that Plum’s return to Las Vegas is not automatic. Head coach Becky Hammon noted that the list could not be the same next season. This likely means a big move is on the horizon, which brings me to the possibility that the Aces should slide someone into this spot.
If they leave Plum, Satou Sabally is a hell of a replacement. Sabally replaces production and helps Vegas add length. If the Aces want another championship, Satou could help them get it. A’ja Wilson, Satou Sabally, Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray? WOO WEE.
4. Minnesota Lynx
The Lynx seem happy to keep their core and revive it for another chance at a WNBA championship. But what if they could lure Satou Sabally to Minnesota?
Inserting Satou into the starting lineup and moving Bridget Carleton or Alanna Smith to the bench could be worth it. She automatically boosts production, and when you move to the bench, you have some terrific options that would work well on both sides of the ball in her place.
Also, can you imagine the possibilities with Satou and Phee on the same field?! I’m already sweating now, thinking about the teams trying to avoid getting cooked by them. Protect your ankles.
5. Valkyries of the Golden State
Now I know what you’re thinking, but hear me out. If Satou Sabally wanted the chance to be the face of a franchise, Golden State is an option.
I know. I know. They already have their listBUT it’s not set in stone. It might be different on opening day. The Valkyries have a young team and management team, including coach Natalie Nakase, ready to work towards a championship. It might not be on his radar now, but you should never say never.
This article was originally published on For The Win: Satou Sabally’s 5 best free agency landing spots, including a New York Liberty reunion with his sister
