Rebekah Gardner from Liberty received additional playing time following her promotion in the lineup.

Brondello Makes Changes in the Starting Lineup

SAN FRANCISCO — Sandy Brondello decided to include Rebeka Gardner in the starting lineup ahead of Sunday’s game, even before Sabrina Ionescu had a chance to wake up.

With Leonie Fiebich still participating in Eurobasket, there was an expectation that Gardner could set the right tone from the very start.

“She was someone who could bring us some good energy,” Brondello mentioned after the 89-79 loss. “She managed transitions well, hit a three-pointer, and made solid cuts. Overall, she had a strong start.”

Even though the game didn’t end in their favor, Gardner managed to make a significant impact. She scored a season-high 12 points, hitting five of her eight attempts, while also contributing two rebounds and blocking two shots.

Gardner might lack the physical traits that would make her an elite wing defender, but her effort pleased Brondello. “She had a really good stint for us, and it’s something we can build on,” he remarked. “We’re just trying to develop her, and she got a few extra minutes today.”

With both Fiebich and Jonquel Jones (who is dealing with an ankle injury) unable to play, the Liberty have been trying out various lineup configurations beyond their usual setup.

Now, Gardner, along with Marine Johannès, Kennedy Burke, and Nyara Sabally, has been given the chance to step up and fill significant roles moving forward.

Initially, the team was about to send Savary and Fiebich overseas for Eurobasket, but Savary had to withdraw at the last moment due to knee issues.

Meanwhile, Sabally’s presence has been a boost for the team, especially as they’ve been missing Jones for at least a month.

Replacing Fiebich and Jones with just one player isn’t feasible. Still, the team is working hard to stabilize during this rocky stretch.

They laid the groundwork for team chemistry during training camp, but, as is often the case, practice can’t fully replicate the intensity of actual games.

Brondello acknowledged the challenge ahead: it’s about continuing to grow together and navigating through these tough times.

“They get to play for one another,” Brondello said. “I don’t think there’s too much to take away from the score, but these experiences help us. Yes, we’re missing three starters, and we are underdogs right now, but we’ve shown we can compete. Today, we had limited chances to win.”