NEW YORK, NY — May 24, 2025 — In a historic and deeply moving act of generosity, New York Liberty superstar Sabrina Ionescu has announced she will donate her entire $20 million performance bonus and sponsorship earnings to charities focused on homelessness, food insecurity, and veteran support services. The stunning announcement has sent shockwaves through the sports world and inspired millions across the country.
The 27-year-old WNBA icon, known for her tenacity on the court and leadership off it, revealed her decision at a press conference earlier today alongside team executives and representatives from several non-profit organizations set to benefit from the donation.
“There are millions of people struggling every day — families without homes, kids without food, veterans without support,” Ionescu said, her voice filled with emotion. “If I can be a part of easing their burden even a little, then that’s more valuable to me than any paycheck.”
The $20 million comes from a combination of performance bonuses after leading the Liberty to their first WNBA championship title in franchise history and a recently inked endorsement deal with several top global brands. Rather than celebrating the milestone with luxury or personal gain, Ionescu is choosing to redirect her success toward helping others.
Among the key beneficiaries of the donation are:
Feeding America, which will receive $5 million to support food banks and meal programs across the U.S.
Habitat for Humanity, which is earmarked for a $7 million boost to build and renovate affordable housing in major cities.
The Wounded Warrior Project and Veterans Matter, receiving $4 million collectively to support homeless and disabled veterans.
An additional $4 million will be distributed among smaller grassroots organizations focusing on youth education, job training, and shelter initiatives in New York City and her hometown of Walnut Creek, California.
WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert praised Ionescu for her “unparalleled example of leadership and compassion,” stating, “This is more than philanthropy. It’s a powerful reminder of what sports heroes can mean in our communities.”
Teammates and coaches were equally moved. Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello called it “the ultimate assist” and said she wasn’t surprised by Ionescu’s action. “Sabrina leads with her heart. That’s who she is. She fights just as hard for others as she does on the court.”
This isn’t the first time Ionescu has made headlines for giving back. Over the years, she has quietly supported several youth basketball programs and scholarship funds. However, today’s announcement marks her most significant philanthropic effort to date—and perhaps one of the largest charitable acts by a professional athlete in recent memory.
Fans and followers quickly took to social media to praise the WNBA All-Star, with hashtags like #SabrinaGivesBack and #20MillionMiracle trending within hours.
In a time when professional athletes are often scrutinized for their earnings and lifestyle, Ionescu’s selfless gesture is already being heralded as a defining moment in modern sports culture.
“Money comes and goes,” Ionescu added at the close of the press conference. “But the chance to make a real impact on someone’s life—that’s the kind of legacy I want to leave behind.”
Sabrina Ionescu’s remarkable generosity has not only set a new standard for philanthropy in professional sports—it has reignited hope, inspired countless others, and reminded us all of the power of giving.
