Liberty’s Preseason Hurdles
The Liberty kicked off their offseason with great energy, notably by bringing on board a coach with an NBA championship background. The excitement is building as they look to attract more star players to their roster.
However, the enthusiasm took a hit when Sabrina Ionescu sustained a left foot injury in the team’s last preseason game against Connecticut, which they won 79-67. Unfortunately, she will be sidelined for about two weeks.
“It’s really disappointing,” lamented Jonquel Jones following Wednesday’s practice.
Coach Chris DeMarco acknowledged the challenge: “Losing one of our top players is tough.”
During practice, Ionescu was seen walking without a boot on her foot, which raised some hopes. Brianna Stewart mentioned, “This scenario is honestly the best we could hope for, given what she’s going through. She’s eager to return, and we’re making sure the transition back is smooth for her.”
Stewart added, “She likes being with us; she doesn’t want to miss out.” The acronym for fear of missing out—FOMO—certainly applied here.
Without Ionescu’s leadership on the court, the Liberty might face challenges in their season opener against Connecticut on Friday at Barclays Center.
But they learned a thing or two last season about performing even when star players are absent.
“Next up is women,” Jones pointed out. “We have plenty of capable players to win.”
While DeMarco hasn’t named a replacement for Ionescu yet, all eyes are on rookie Pauline Astier.
The French player made a notable impact during training camp, impressing everyone with her quick adaptability and basketball IQ.
In her preseason debut, she scored 12 points, dished out four assists, grabbed a rebound, and had a steal in just 22 minutes of play.
Astier remains composed, stating, “I’m just keeping it simple and playing my basketball. I know I have great teammates who help me out. I’m just happy to be here… I’m not overthinking it.”
Meanwhile, Johannes stepped up as well, scoring 12 points and facilitating the game after Ionescu’s injury. “She’s adjusting well,” DeMarco noted. “She’s incredibly smart and will make plays that elevate her teammates.”
Fan-favorite Marine Johannes might also see an increase in her role, alongside Marine Fortwo, who is aiming to return from a knee sprain suffered nearly a year ago.
“She anticipates plays before they unfold. She’s a great shooter,” Jones commented about Johannes. “We want her to embrace her freedom in our system. If she does that, we’ll see her at her best.”
Astier and Johannes are finding their rhythm in the starting lineup, working alongside Bethniah Rainey-Hamilton, Stewart, and Jones during practice. Their synergy from previous games seems promising.
For the Liberty, fostering backcourt chemistry in Ionescu’s absence might prove beneficial.
“Getting to know each other’s game better feels good,” Johannes shared. “It really matters for us to spend this time together on the court.”
