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Sabrina Ionescu Comments on Energized Reaction After a Successful Challenge vs. Sun

Originally posted on Athlon Sports | By Reign Amurao | Last updated Jun 1, 2025 7:57 PM ET

Sabrina Ionescu and the New York Liberty had a dominating victory over the Connecticut Sun on Sunday. The Liberty had a 100-52 win, which set a new franchise record for the largest margin of victory in a single game. Ionescu and her crew also tied the best start in team history with their 7-0 record. The last time New York had a strong start like this was in 1997.

Liberty's star guard led the way with 18 points on 4-for-6 shooting from deep in only 18 minutes of action. New York had three other players who scored in double digits. Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones and Leonie Fiebich each had 13 points.

In the third quarter, however, a foul was called on Ionescu as she contested Marina Mabrey's attempt from downtown. The three-time WNBA All-Star didn't like the call and complained to the officials. This led her to encourage her coaches to challenge the call.

The defensive play was reviewed and ruled in favor of the Liberty. The call was overturned, and the 2024 champion had a very energetic reaction to the result of the challenge. Ionescu went up to every coach and gave each of them a high five.

When the challenge is successful pic.twitter.com/6B0smKIn7X
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) June 1, 2025

Following the contest, Ionescu was asked about her reaction. According to her, she was in the moment, which is why she reacted that way.

"I was just really in the moment, but I knew I didn't foul her. Very thankful for my coaches in trusting me because I knew I didn't. My ponytail was challenge -- she hit me," Ionescu said when asked by Bleacher Report's Jackie Powell.

The Liberty is on an incredible streak and is looking to secure its eighth-straight win. On Thursday , they'll take on the Washington Mystics.

The Sun, on the other hand, couldn't add another win to their record and are now 1-6 in the season. Connecticut will face the Atlanta Dream on Saturday.

This article first appeared on Athlon Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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