Liberty players stand up for their supporters following Mercury’s comment about the ‘quiet’ Barclays audience.

Phoenix – Sabrina Ionescu responded with silence after two players from the Mercury directed criticism toward Liberty fans following their Game 2 win in Brooklyn.

She finds it a bit questionable to argue about which fans are the best in the league.

“I think most people are aware of whose arena is larger,” Ionescu mentioned on Friday, just before Game 3.

Ionescu partially understood why the fans at Barclays Center weren’t as loud as usual.

“Obviously, we weren’t exactly rallying the fans during the blowout,” Ionescu remarked.

After a 26-point performance against Liberty, Mercury Guard Carly Copper expressed surprise at the crowd’s demeanor.

“I didn’t think it would be so quiet to start,” Copper said. “We expected a more raucous environment, but it was rather muted.”

Satou Sabury was asked about the upcoming game and playing in front of fans known as the “X-Factor.” Sabury, who participated in Liberty’s Championship Parade last October, anticipated that the PHX Arena would be much louder than what they experienced in Brooklyn.

Copper seemed taken aback by Sabury’s comment, caught by the microphone during a moment of levity.

Sabury emphasized that Mercury fans wouldn’t leave early, unlike some spectators in Brooklyn who departed midway through the fourth quarter.

“They’ll stick around until the end,” Savary said. “They are supportive… That’s just not accurate.”

She predicted that Friday’s atmosphere would be “electric,” asserting that the vibe at PHX Arena is “unmatched.”

When asked about the comments from the Mercury players, Liberty star Breana Stewart revealed her anticipation for that feedback.

Stewart also defended the support from Liberty fans.

“Our fans have always been there for us, even when we struggle,” Stewart said. “It’s tough for them, but they remain loyal, and our New York fans are not easy to sway.”

Jonquel Jones was given the opportunity to respond to the comments from her opponents, but she indicated she was focused on the game for now.

However, she did hint at the pressure of high-stakes situations, remarking on the thrill of “big shots” and the importance of such moments in chasing the championship.

Jones mentioned that they needed to keep the fans quiet as they faced a challenging environment.

Liberty is determined not to let their recent loss paint a bleak picture for the rest of the season.

Ionescu voiced concerns about how the team performed and acknowledged that they underwhelmed the fans. She admitted that the game was not up to par for what fans deserved.

Ionescu feels personally connected to the fan base, recognizing her role in its growth over the seasons. She values their unwavering support, even during tough times.

“That’s not how we usually play, I think that’s clear,” Ionescu said. “We needed to show up and handle our business tonight.”

“We care about our fans,” she stressed. “I know the effort we put in to earn that support, and it’s essential for us to bring it back.”