Liberty’s Roster Update Ahead of Season Opener

The final piece of Liberty’s roster is returning, albeit from quite a distance.

Leonie Fevich, a key player who transitioned from reserves to a vital role in last season’s championship team, is expected back on Thursday. She recently celebrated a title win overseas with Valencia in the Spanish La Liga Femenina de Baroncesto.

Coach Blondero is not ready to speculate on her return timeline since Liberty’s season kickoff against the Ace is set for Saturday. The team is hopeful that Fevich will be available by then.

“She was with us before, so I imagine she’ll integrate quickly,” Blondero commented. “It’s really about when she’s ready and how we manage her workload moving forward.”

Fevich had an impressive stint with Valencia, averaging 9.8 points and logging 26.5 minutes per game. She really shined during the Championship series against Zaragoza, scoring 28 points across two games.

Following her rookie season in the WNBA, Fevich found herself initially overlooked until a three-team trade landed her with the Liberty in 2023, ultimately carving out a starting role before the playoffs. This past season saw her making 15 starts during the regular games.

This time around, however, her contributions are expected rather than surprising. She averaged 6.0 points and 3.7 rebounds per game, accompanied by strong wing defense, which the team will certainly rely on once she’s back.

“I know she’s one of the toughest players out there,” Blondero acknowledged, “but we want to approach this smartly.”

On another note, forwards Esmery Martinez and Leona Odom were released on Thursday, rounding out Liberty’s roster to 12 players. Isabel Harrison and Jaylin Sherrod clinched the final two roster spots.

Blondero explained, “This roster reflects a careful assessment of our team’s balance and needs. We have to plan for contingencies as well. It’s about filling those last few spots in a thoughtful way.”

In a separate development, the Liberty has officially suspended Vietniya Rainey Hamilton’s contract. Unfortunately, she will not play this season due to severe meniscus tears in her knee but will remain under exclusive negotiation rights in the upcoming offseason.

“Her situation developed so fast that we had to ensure she could mentally prepare for her absence,” Blondero remarked. “While this may not be ideal, I believe our game will maintain its intensity.”

Lastly, Breanna Stewart is set to throw the first pitch at Yankee Stadium during Liberty Night for the Metro Series finale against the Mets. Reflecting on her rookie season, Stewart noted, “I just don’t know how high I’ll be on the mound, but I just throw it high and see how it goes!”