Breaking Boundaries: New York Liberty Guard Sabrina Ionescu Named Tissot Brand Ambassador
Le Locle, Switzerland. April 2024. Tissot proudly introduces Sabrina Ionescu, the New York Liberty guard, as its inaugural WNBA athlete to serve as an International Brand Ambassador. Ionescu, synonymous with excellence in women’s basketball, has journeyed from her early aspirations to her current trailblazing status, overcoming obstacles and setting records along the way. This collaboration between the Swiss brand and Ionescu aims to inspire future generations, demonstrating that dedication and hard work can conquer any challenge.
The Ascension of Sabrina Ionescu
From her high school days to her present prominence in the professional arena, Ionescu’s basketball trajectory has been nothing short of illustrious. Honored as the Guard of the Year for three consecutive seasons during her tenure at the University of Oregon, her collegiate career was a testament to exceptional talent and achievement. She shattered records, becoming the first college athlete to surpass 2,000 points, 1,000 assists, and 1,000 rebounds. Drafted as the top pick by the Liberty in the 2020 WNBA Draft, Ionescu’s transition to professional basketball was marked by both challenges and triumphs. Despite an early injury setback in her rookie season, her resilience manifested in a remarkable comeback in the 2021 season. Her ability to score crucial three-pointers and her distinction as the youngest player in WNBA history to achieve a triple-double underscore her exceptional talents.
The 2022 WNBA season further solidified her legacy, with her selection to the WNBA All-Star team. The subsequent year, she clinched victory in the 3-point contest, setting new records and surpassing previous WNBA and NBA achievements.
In the recent Stephen vs. Sabrina event at the 2024 NBA All-Star Weekend, Ionescu showcased her prowess by matching the highest single-round score of the NBA’s 3-Point Contest with 26 points. This feat, akin to that of Damian Lillard, another Tissot brand ambassador, underscored her extraordinary talent and contributed to bridging the gap between the NBA and WNBA, highlighting the universality of skill in basketball.
Ionescu’s journey in basketball, characterized by talent, hard work, and resilience, continues to elevate her as a prominent figure in the game, inspiring aspiring athletes and paving the way for future generations in sports.
Watch Her Make Moves and Break Barriers
Reflecting on her journey in Tissot’s announcement video, Ionescu shares, “I started playing basketball when I was a young girl, playing up against the boys. I had to fight for every shot, every rebound.” This narrative underscores the resilience required to succeed in competitive arenas. She adds, “No one said it would be easy, but that’s the power of adversity. Always moving forward, never giving up. Every moment is precious. Time is of the essence.”
Beyond the Court
Ionescu’s commitment to building a better tomorrow in the communities that shaped her is exemplified through her SI20 Foundation, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing equitable access to sports for youth from all backgrounds and skill levels. Her dedication mirrors Tissot’s values, embodying a perfect synergy between her achievements and the brand’s principles.
Tissot and the WNBA: Sport Moves and Connects Us
Tissot’s association with Ionescu reinforces its commitment to celebrating women’s basketball and sport. This partnership, initiated in 2015, blends Tissot’s rich sporting heritage with the empowering essence of women’s basketball. The WNBA, as the premier professional women’s basketball league in North America, embodies resilience, empowerment, and the celebration of diversity. Together, Tissot and the WNBA break barriers, celebrate journeys, and empower individuals to strive for excellence in traditionally male-dominated arenas, reflecting the brand’s enduring legacy intertwined with the world of sport since its inception in 1853.
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