Liberty advances to playoffs despite loss; Stewart frustrated

SAN FRANCISCO – The New York Liberty, although with a bittersweet taste, secured their spot in the postseason on Tuesday night. The classification came thanks to the help of the Phoenix Mercury, as the Liberty fell to the Golden State Valkyries. The final score was 66-58 in favor of the Valkyries, but the defeat did not prevent the Liberty from advancing to the playoffs, thanks to the defeat of the Indiana Fever against the Mercury that same day.

We just lost the game. Yes, we are in the playoffs, but we still lost the game.

Sandy Brondello, Liberty coachThe Liberty had struggled to secure their place in the postseason, losing in their previous attempts and depending on other results. However, upon arriving at the game against Golden State, the team did not focus on these implications. The team has had a season below expectations, seeking to defend its 2024 title. With only three games remaining in the regular season, they are still looking to improve their health, build better chemistry, and play more complete games. In the match against the Valkyries, these areas for improvement were evident.

This has been disappointing, collectively. Yes, there may be bright spots or whatever, but we have three games left and we’re not where we need to be. It’s frustrating, it’s difficult.

Breanna Stewart

After a promising first quarter, where they achieved a four-point lead, the Liberty were outscored 26-8 in the second quarter. During this period, they committed five turnovers and had a low three-point shooting percentage (16.7%). By halftime, they were already losing by 12 points. Despite having the league’s best 3-point defense, the Liberty allowed the Valkyries to find their offensive rhythm. Kate Martin made the team’s first three 3-point attempts in the second quarter. Stewart described the situation as a reflection of the season.

It’s the story of our season right now. When we have to take the ball out of the net, we struggle. We gave up 26 points and our spacing was a little off. And I thought we had some good opportunities at times and just missed, but putting ourselves in a hole like that, it’s like…

Breanna Stewart

Sabrina Ionescu missed her third straight game due to a left big toe injury, and Nyara Sabally was also out. The Liberty have only had their full roster in two games this season and have used 16 different starting lineups.

We haven’t met our expectations and, obviously, injuries have been part of that. We’ve played with so many different rotations and, as a team, we’re not always cohesive due to the lack of time together, but that’s not an excuse.

Sandy Brondello, Liberty coach

Brondello added: “I trust in us, especially when Sabrina returns. I feel good about this team, but we need to win now.”