WNBA Playoffs: Mercury's Defensive Dominance Ends Liberty's Hopes in Game 2

New York Liberty Faces Critical Challenges in Game 3

After a dramatic overtime win in Game 1, the reigning champion New York Liberty returned to their home court at Barclays Center with the opportunity to sweep the Phoenix Mercury in their first-round series and advance to the semifinals. However, instead of securing a dominant victory, the Liberty suffered their worst home playoff loss in franchise history. The Mercury dominated all aspects of the game, especially on defense, leading to an 86-60 win that evened the series at 1-1 and forced a decisive Game 3 in Phoenix on Friday night.

"When you want to win and you know what it takes, I think you just do the little things," said Kahleah Copper. "We knew it was about our defense. That's one thing that we can control, so we take pride in that and just being a dog."

The Liberty struggled offensively, shooting just 30.2% from the field, turning the ball over 16 times, and failing to score more than 13 points in any of the final three quarters. After making 10 shots in the first quarter, they managed only nine for the rest of the game, recording their lowest field goal percentage of the season.

"They came in and they embarrassed us on our home court," said Breanna Stewart. "Now we have to go back there for Game 3. Winner take all. If we're not ready for that, then we shouldn't be here."

Hobbled Stewart: A Major Concern

Breanna Stewart, a key player for the Liberty, was significantly limited in Game 2 due to an injury. During Game 1, she suffered a torn MCL in her left knee but continued to play in Game 2. Her performance was severely impacted, as she was limited to 20 minutes, scoring just six points, grabbing two rebounds, and dishing out two assists. She had more turnovers (three) than made baskets (two).

Stewart’s usual lift on jumpers was absent, and she struggled to get to where she wanted to go on drives. Liberty coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged the physicality of the game, stating that Stewart did what she could but noted the difficulty of the situation.

"I just wasn't where I wanted to be today," Stewart admitted. "And I have 48 hours to figure it out."

If Stewart isn’t able to provide her usual production in Game 3, it will be a major issue for the Liberty, who are counting on her performance to secure a win.

Concern Level for Game 3: High

No Path to the Paint: A Defensive Struggle

The Liberty are primarily a jump-shooting team, finishing ninth in the league in points in the paint per game during the regular season. However, their performance in Game 2 was abysmal, as they were 11 of 32 (34.4%) on paint attempts, scoring just 22 points in the paint—third-fewest in a game this season.

Every time the Liberty tried to get to the basket, the Mercury effectively stopped them, either through strong one-on-one defense or well-timed help. Jonquel Jones acknowledged the challenge, saying, "We're such a powerful team offensively and tonight they were able to really congest us and muck things up."

The Liberty’s inability to drive to the basket also affected their 3-point shooting. They shot 6 of 26 from behind the arc in Game 2, with only one of those attempts coming after a paint touch. This lack of penetration made it difficult to create open looks for their shooters.

Concern Level for Game 3: Medium-to-High

Too Many Turnovers: A Persistent Problem

The Liberty have struggled with turnovers throughout the season, ranking seventh in the league with a 17.3% turnover rate. In Game 2, they turned the ball over 15 times, resulting in 25 points for the Mercury. Through the first two games, the Liberty committed 36 turnovers, which the Mercury converted into 40 points.

Phoenix, known for its defensive intensity, is tied for third in the league in steals per game and has the fourth-best opponent turnover rate. Their physical defenders are adept at exploiting any lapses in concentration.

"Defense has been our calling card all year," said Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts. "I think we've done that. I just love our competitive spirit... give your group credit. They've really bought into the game plan and we're continuing to fight."

With Stewart still hobbled and the Liberty facing a must-win Game 3 on the road, solving their turnover issues will be crucial for their chances of advancing.

Concern Level for Game 3: High