Breanna Stewart Injury Update: Liberty Star a Game-Time Decision for Playoff Clash vs. Mercury

New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart’s status for Game 2 of the WNBA playoffs remains uncertain. The two-time MVP had imaging done on her left knee, which came back “relatively clean.” Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello confirmed Tuesday that Stewart will be a game-time decision on Wednesday, Sept. 17. The Liberty will face the Phoenix Mercury at 8 p.m. ET at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

Stewart suffered the injury during Game 1 on Sunday, which New York won 76-69 in overtime. She was present at Tuesday’s practice session but did not take part in drills. Brondello said the staff will monitor her closely before tip-off.

Liberty Relying on Depth as Stewart Recovers

The Liberty are no strangers to playing without their star forward. Stewart missed 13 games in the regular season after suffering a bone bruise on her right knee in late July. Despite her absence, New York managed to secure a strong finish and enter the postseason with momentum.

In Game 1, the Liberty leaned on Jonquel Jones and Sabrina Ionescu to close out a tough overtime victory in Phoenix. Jones posted a double-double while Ionescu came through with key shots late in the game. If Stewart sits out Game 2, the Liberty will once again look to their depth to carry them.

The Mercury, led by Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner, pushed New York to the limit in the opener. A Stewart absence could tilt the balance in their favor, as the Mercury seek to even the best-of-three series before heading back home for a possible Game 3 on Friday, Sept. 19.

Impact on Playoff Picture

Stewart’s health is crucial not just for this series but for the Liberty’s championship hopes. The forward averaged over 18 points and eight rebounds during the season and remains one of the league’s most versatile players. Losing her at this stage would force Brondello to make significant adjustments on both ends of the court.

According to Associated Press, the Liberty medical team will reassess Stewart closer to game time. If she plays, her minutes may be managed to avoid further risk. If not, the Liberty will depend heavily on their bench and defensive schemes.

For the Mercury, a Stewart absence could open space inside for Griner and give Taurasi more opportunities from the perimeter. Phoenix has the experience to capitalize, making Game 2 a pivotal moment in the series.

Breanna Stewart injury update remains the top storyline heading into Wednesday night. Fans will be watching closely to see if the Liberty star can take the floor in Brooklyn.

Info at your fingertips-

Q1: What is the latest Breanna Stewart injury update?

Stewart had scans on her left knee that came back “relatively clean.” She is listed as a game-time decision for Game 2 against Phoenix.

Q2: When is the Liberty vs. Mercury Game 2?

Game 2 is scheduled for Wednesday, Sept. 17 at 8 p.m. ET. The game will be played at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York.

Q3: How did Breanna Stewart get injured?

She suffered the injury in Game 1 of the playoff series, which New York won 76-69 in overtime on Sunday in Phoenix.

Q4: Did Stewart miss games earlier this season?

Yes. She missed 13 games in the regular season after sustaining a bone bruise on her right knee on July 26.

Q5: When is Game 3 if needed?

If the series goes to a deciding game, it will be played on Friday, Sept. 19 in Phoenix.