Liane Sato played volleyball at Santa Monica High School and then San Diego State University. She played for the USA at both the 1988 and 1992 Olympics, winning a bronze medal in 1992. She also won a bronze medal at the 1990 World Championships. At only 163 cm (5-4) Sato played the back row and was known for her defensive and setting abilities. After the 1992 Olympics Sato played professional beach volleyball, mostly on the Four-Women Pro Beach Tour, and she captained Team Paul Mitchell in 1994-95.
Sato later became a teacher and coach, eventually coaching volleyball at her alma mater, Santa Monica High School. Her brother, Eric Sato, also played volleyball for the US at the 1988 and 1992 Olympics.