Sabrina Ionescu, a premier talent in the Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA), has successfully guided the New York Liberty to the WNBA Finals. This achievement comes in a season where the spotlight has often been on rookie phenomenon Caitlin Clark and reigning MVP A'Ja Wilson. Ionescu's consistent excellence is underscored by her selection to three consecutive WNBA All-Star teams in just five professional seasons.
Beyond the Court: A Private Union with NFL's Hroniss Grasu
While dominating the hardwood, Ionescu's personal life has also been a subject of interest. She is married to NFL offensive lineman Hroniss Grasu. The couple made their relationship public in 2021, got engaged in January 2023, and tied the knot in a ceremony in Laguna Beach, California, in March 2024. The wedding was attended by notable figures, including Vanessa Bryant.
The engagement was a carefully orchestrated surprise by Grasu, who collaborated with Ionescu's team. He proposed during what she believed was a routine interview for GQ magazine. "I was completely shocked and caught off guard," Ionescu later shared on TikTok. "I was just so happy."
Parallel Paths: From Oregon Ducks to Professional Stardom
Interestingly, both Ionescu and Grasu share a connection to the University of Oregon, though their time there did not overlap. Grasu played college football for the Oregon Ducks from 2010 to 2014 before being drafted by the Chicago Bears in the third round of the 2015 NFL Draft. After three years with the Bears, he became a journeyman, playing for teams like the Baltimore Ravens, Miami Dolphins, Tennessee Titans, San Francisco 49ers, and Las Vegas Raiders. He is currently a free agent.
Ionescu began her storied basketball career at Oregon the year after Grasu left, enrolling in 2016. She earned her bachelor's degree in just three years while becoming a legend for the Ducks. It is believed the couple met after Grasu had already entered the NFL.
A Landmark Year: Signature Shoe and Three-Point Record
The year 2023 was monumental for Ionescu on multiple fronts. Shortly after getting engaged, she signed a signature shoe deal with Nike. She also made history by winning the WNBA Three-Point Contest with a record-breaking 37 points. Ionescu emphasized the importance of her family and heritage in designing her Nike line, stating it shaped her both as a player and a person.
Throughout their relationship, Ionescu and Grasu have maintained a notably low profile, sharing few intimate details publicly. However, Grasu's support is evident as he is a regular attendee at her WNBA games. The couple, both of whom have Romanian ancestry, continue to build their lives together while excelling in their respective demanding sports careers.
