New York Liberty Outlasts Washington Mystics Despite Short-Handed Roster
The New York Liberty achieved a resounding victory over the Washington Mystics with a score of 89-63 this Thursday, despite the recent injuries that have affected the team. Without the presence of Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones, Breanna Stewart, Emma Meesseman, and Marine Johannes took the lead for the Liberty. This triumph solidifies their position in fifth place in the standings as the WNBA regular season enters its final phase. Ionescu suffered a left toe injury during Wednesday’s practice, while Jones felt ill on Thursday morning, which added her to the injured list at the last minute. In addition, the New York team was also without Natasha Cloud (broken nose) and Nyara Sabally (knee), which left the team with only eight players available at the start of the game.Breanna Stewart, who returned on Monday after missing 13 games due to a bone contusion in her right knee, played 24 minutes and contributed 12 points and 9 rebounds, despite being under a minutes restriction. Meesseman led the team with 15 points, while Johannes scored 14. With this result, the Liberty remain seven games behind the Minnesota Lynx, league leaders. Washington coach Sydney Johnson learned of the absence of two of the Liberty’s stars shortly before the game.Welcome to the 2025 New York Liberty! It’s been crazy.
Sandy Brondello, Coach
When Ionescu, Jones, and Stewart have played, the New York team has a 10-0 record. However, their record is 13-15 without them. The Liberty are in the thick of the playoff race, half a game behind Phoenix for the fourth seed and home-court advantage in the first round.They have a lot of people. We have big challenges ahead. Sabrina and JJ won’t be there, but others will. I can guarantee it.
Sydney Johnson, Coach
