New York Liberty star and newly minted 2024 WNBA champion, Sabrina Ionescu, is making exciting strides beyond the basketball court. In a move that reflects her ambition and dedication to women’s sports, she has officially joined the National Women’s Soccer League (NWSL) club Bay FC as both an investor and an “official commercial advisor.” This announcement, shared earlier in the week, marks a significant step not just for Ionescu’s career but also for the representation and investment in women’s sports.
For Ionescu, this role goes far beyond just a financial investment. It’s about fostering growth and making a meaningful impact. She emphasizes the need for direct involvement in the evolution of the club, expressing a deep commitment to being part of something bigger. “I genuinely understand how critical investment is. It’s not just about talking the talk; it’s about rolling up your sleeves and being dedicated to seeing your beliefs become reality,” she shared with ESPN’s Kendra Andrews.
Her interest in Bay FC didn’t emerge overnight. Since the club’s inception in 2024, Ionescu’s enthusiasm has been palpable. While initial conversations centered around making a financial commitment, it quickly evolved into a deeper engagement. Taking on the role of a commercial advisor, she aims to help define the club’s marketing strategies and brand partnerships, recognizing that her influence can extend far beyond mere monetary contributions.
“I wanted my investment to be about more than just transactions,” Ionescu said. “I want to build a relationship with the team and its players. Bringing my connections and what I’ve learned about business to the table is essential for enhancing our overall brand partnership strategy.” This commitment highlights her understanding of the intricate connections within the sports world and her determination to elevate women’s sports collectively.
Ionescu’s expertise in brand collaborations is noteworthy. She made history as the first women’s basketball player to partner with Nike to launch a unisex signature collection. Now, she’s looking to carry that momentum forward, hoping to advocate for specialized cleats for Bay FC, and other teams within the NWSL, similar to deals she arranged for NFL and MLB athletes. Her innovative spirit resonates with the need for equity in resources and endorsement in women’s sports.
Brady Stewart, the CEO of Bay FC, was quick to commend Ionescu’s vision and innovative strategies. He acknowledged her as a driving force for aspiring and current professional athletes, stating, “Sabrina is the ultimate innovator. Adding her passion and insights to Bay FC will allow us to disrupt and reshape the sports landscape.”
What really drives Ionescu, however, is her belief in the transformational power of women’s sports. She sees significant parallels between the WNBA’s growth and the ongoing rise of women’s soccer in the United States. The key, she asserts, lies in commitment and investment. “The change hasn’t happened overnight for us,” she explained. “It required investment and commitment. Yet, we’re witnessing tangible results — increased viewership, record attendance, and growing sponsorships — all reflecting how women’s sports are thriving like never before.”
As she steps into this crucial role with Bay FC, Ionescu is poised to make lasting contributions to the women’s soccer landscape, creating opportunities that resonate with those who dare to dream and aspire in the world of sports. Her journey not only inspires a new generation of athletes but also reinforces the notion that investment in women’s sports is not just necessary; it’s vital for shaping a more inclusive and successful future in athletics.
Image Source: Sabrina Ionescu @ Instagram
