In a dazzling display of hometown love, WNBA superstar Sabrina Ionescu proved that you can take the girl out of the Bay Area, but you can’t take the Bay Area out of the girl.

The Walnut Creek native and New York Liberty point guard recently dominated the Golden State Valkyries at Chase Center, clinching a nail-biting 81-78 victory that had fans on the edge of their seats. But the real victory? Her unabashed celebration of her roots.

From Local Legend to National Sensation

After the game, Ionescu took to Instagram with a heartwarming post that screamed pure Bay Area pride. Decked out in a Bay FC shirt and surrounded by friends and family, she captured the moment with the caption “Bay love” - a simple yet powerful declaration of her connection to her hometown.

Breaking Records, Breaking Barriers

This wasn’t just any ordinary game. It marked the third time this season the Liberty have defeated the Valkyries, but the first triumph on home turf at Chase Center. For Ionescu, it was more than just a win - it was a homecoming that symbolized her journey from a local court to national stardom.

A True Bay Area Icon

With her “Bay Area kid with a dream” spirit, Ionescu continues to inspire young athletes everywhere, proving that hometown roots can fuel extraordinary success. Her message is clear: no matter where your career takes you, never forget where you came from.