Back in the winners circle. It almost went sideways at the very end, but the New York Liberty did just enough to hang on and beat the Connecticut Sun on Monday night. The champs have been road warriors all month, but have gotten some much needed days off to rest at home.
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The opponent tonight is still within playoff range, but time is running out. The Washington Mystics have managed to exceed expectations this year, but it may not end with a playoff appearance. Their losing streak extended to four after losing at home to the Seattle Storm on Sunday afternoon on a Nneka Ogwumike buzzer beater. They’ve been off for the past few days.
Where to follow the game
MY9 on TV. Liberty Live and FOX Local on streaming. League Pass for the out-of-towners. Tip after 7 PM EST.
Injuries
Natasha Cloud missed Monday’s game with a nose injury. We found out after the game that she has a slight nose fracture, but is expected to play tonight. Isabelle Harrison is working her way back from a concussion. We’ll see if she’s back tonight as well. Nyara Sabally is out.
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Jacy Sheldon is out with an ankle injury. Georgia Amoore is continuing to recover from an ACL tear.
The game
New York won the first and second meetings.
Welcome back, Breanna Stewart! Stewie made her long awaited return after being out of action for a month with a knee bruise. What stood out the most was the drives to the rim throughout the night. When the Liberty get in trouble, they often settle for jumpers and become stagnant. With Stewart out there, they have more downhill juice and that in turn gets them to the free throw line, which has the added benefit of allowing them to set their defense going the other way. Chances are she’ll be on a minutes restriction again tonight as she gradually works her way back to tip-top form. Even at less than peak capacity, Stewart’s presence gives the Liberty a much needed boost in morale and another great player that can lessen the workload of her teammates.
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Another day in which the Liberty’s rebounding weaknesses will be put to the test. Washington is third in the W in rebound rate, led by the All-WNBA rookie team nominee and birthday girl, Kiki Iriafen. Going into the year, we thought Iriafen would play behind last year’s first round pick, Aaliyah Edwards. However, Iriafen flipped the script and got off to an incredible start this season and never let up. She’s fifth in the league in double doubles and was named an All-Star. Iriafen is a force on the glass and someone that will require plenty of focus and attention from the Liberty.
That’ll start with Jonquel Jones. JJ has spoken about the group needing to be better on the glass, including herself in that as well. When she gets a double-double, it guarantees a Liberty victory. In her only full game against the Mystics, she grabbed a Liberty career high of 18 rebounds in 30 minutes. While the Liberty (likely) won’t need that number tonight, JJ making her presence felt on the inside against the Mystics duo of Shakira Austin and Stefanie Dolson will go a long way in establishing the tempo of this contest.
Player to watch: Sonia Citron
It’s been a banner rookie season for the former Notre Dame standout. She was named to the All-Star team and is a lock to make the All-WNBA rookie team. She leads the roster in scoring at just over 15 points per game on .471/.424/.882 shooting splits. Washington’s draft this year was a grand slam and as Sonia continues to develop, she can help the Mystics get back into championship contention a lot sooner than anticipated.
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Sabrina Ionescu made her return to action following a game out due to a foot injury. Her shot wasn’t there, but the playmaking certainly was as she had nine assists in 34 minutes. Her chemistry with Emma Meesseman has continued to blossom and they’re developing more of a rhythm with one another on the court
Sab’s decision making has always been solid, and it’s a skill that comes almost naturally. Lucas asked Meesseman about in post on Tuesday, and here’s what she had to say
That knowledge comes with a lot of experience and lessons learned. It’s always fun to watch great players ply their craft and add even more to their toolbelts.
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From the Vault
Ones in the air for Aaliyah
More reading: Bullets Forever, Swish Appeal, Breakaway, SB Nation, Women’s Basketball Roundup, The Local W, New York Daily News, No Cap Space, New York Post, Newsday, The Athletic, NY Liberty Fan TV, Fansided, Just Women’s Sports, Winsidr, Her Hoop Stats, Yahoo Sports, ESPN, CBS Sports, and The Next
