Satou Sabally on Leaving Dallas Wings: ‘I’ll Miss the Fans
ARLINGTON, TEXAS - SEPTEMBER 13: Satou Sabally #0 of the Dallas Wings controls the ball during the first half against the Seattle Storm at College Park Center on September 13, 2024 in Arlington, Texas. NOTE TO USER: User expressly acknowledges and agrees that, by downloading and or using this photograph, User is consenting to the terms and conditions of the Getty Images License Agreement. (Photo by Sam Hodde/Getty Images)
Satou Sabally’s decision to leave the Dallas Wings after five significant seasons marks the end of an essential chapter in her WNBA career. Sabally spoke about her mixed emotions about the decision during an Instagram Live session with ex-Oregon Ducks teammate Taylor Chavez, stating:
“I’m sad about it, though. I like the fans. I’ll miss the fans, but it’s time to move on.”
When Sabally asked Chavez which team she was going to, Chavez added, “We don’t know yet, but just know wherever Satou ends up at ring in coming… Ring in coming, okay.”
A Stellar Career in Dallas
Sabally, drafted second overall by the Dallas Wings in 2020 from Oregon, quickly became a vital part of the team. In five seasons, the 26-year-old forward became one of the most dynamic players in the league. Her 2023 campaign was impressive enough to earn her WNBA Most Improved Player honors. During the season, she averaged 18.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 4.4 assists, which strengthened her status as a star and resulted in her being named to the All-WNBA First Team.
In 2024, Sabally made a remarkable return to action despite being limited to 15 games due to a shoulder injury sustained during Olympic qualifying play for Germany. Following surgery, she represented her country at the Paris Olympics before rejoining the Wings. Throughout the season, she averaged 17.9 points, 6.4 rebounds, and five assists while shooting an impressive 45% from beyond the arc.
Dallas Struggles Despite Sabally’s Excellence
The Wings often struggled to achieve team success despite Sabally’s consistent performances. During her tenure, Dallas only managed to finish above 500 once. Their 2024 season was disappointing, as they ended up with the league’s second-worst record, 9–31. Sabally’s announcement came as the organization underwent significant changes, including introducing Chris Koclanes as the new head coach and naming veteran Curt Miller as the executive vice president of basketball operations and general manager.
Sabally’s Farewell and Next Chapter
During her media availability for the new women’s basketball league Unrivaled, Sabally expressed gratitude towards the Wings while confirming her departure. “I’ve already communicated with Dallas how grateful I am because they’ve made this a home for me for the past years,” she said. “I’m working with them together and finding a next home for me. I’ve already played my last game in Dallas.”
Sabally’s announcement, which coincides with Dallas’s organizational overhaul, highlights the team’s shifting dynamics. Although her departure leaves a significant void on the roster, it also signals a fresh start for the star forward as she explores opportunities in other leagues.
Sabally is still in her prime in the WNBA, even though she is only 26. She is sure to be a sought-after player in free agency due to her skillset, leadership, and proven ability to elevate her game. Fans across the league will eagerly await news of her next destination. The end of an era is signified by the departure of Sabally for the Wings. Despite her absence, the organization will endeavor to rebuild and redefine its identity under new leadership. Sabally’s legacy in Dallas is undeniably due to her growth as a player and undeniable impact both on and off the court. Satou Sabally is certain that success will follow her wherever she goes in this next phase.
