The Liberty team dodged a significant setback regarding Breanna Stewart after her early exit from Saturday’s game.
She underwent imaging for her lower right leg after leaving the game during the first quarter. Thankfully, the results came back without any serious injuries, according to sources.
Stewart is set to join the Liberty on their upcoming four-game road trip, kicking off Monday in Dallas. However, the team’s plan is to ensure she has enough time to heal, rather than rushing her back into action.
During the first quarter against the Sparks, Stewart jogged on the court, even waving to the bench and taking a few quick steps before leaving with 6:33 remaining in the frame. After heading down the tunnel, she did not return. Following the game, which the Liberty lost 101-99, head coach Sandy Brondello expressed uncertainty about the severity of Stewart’s condition, saying, “Hopefully, she’ll be fine.”
This season has been challenging, marked by John Quell Jones missing games due to a right ankle injury and several other players sidelined for various reasons. Stewart’s absence is forcing the team to adapt once again. They struggled defensively against the Sparks, allowing over 50% shooting and finding themselves down by 15 points late in the game, though they managed a comeback in the fourth quarter.
Backup center Nyara Sabbery is also dealing with her own issues, having missed the last three games for rest and will be sidelined for an additional two to three weeks. Kennedy Burke played only six minutes on Saturday due to convulsions, while Leonie Fevich also participated despite a hand injury.
“She’s a huge part of our offense and defense,” Fevich commented on Stewart after the game. “You can really feel her absence on the defensive end. She’s versatile and puts pressure on the ball. We definitely missed her today.”
The team hasn’t had to navigate this kind of situation yet this season, but with hopes high for Stewart’s swift return, they’re adapting as best they can.
Stewart is currently averaging 18.3 points per game this season.
