Will Breanna Stewart’s scoring continue to decrease? Stewart and New York will take on Phoenix in Monday night’s Liberty vs. Mercury matchup. Tip-off for tonight’s WNBA game is scheduled for 10:00 p.m. ET.
Liberty vs. Mercury Event Information
New York Liberty (-5.5) at Phoenix Mercury (+5.5); o/u 164
10:00 p.m. ET, Monday, August 26, 2024
Footprint Center Phoenix, AZ
New York Liberty
The New York Liberty have been one of the top teams in the league this season, boasting a star-studded roster and a potent mix of offensive firepower and defensive solidity. Key players for the Liberty include:
- Breanna Stewart: An MVP candidate, Stewart has been dominant on both ends of the floor. Her scoring ability, rebounding, and defensive presence make her a game-changing player every night.
- Sabrina Ionescu: As one of the league’s premier point guards, Ionescu’s playmaking and shooting are crucial to the Liberty’s offensive flow. She can stretch defenses with her shooting range and create opportunities for her teammates.
- Jonquel Jones: The versatile forward has been an important factor in the paint for New York. Her ability to score, rebound, and defend multiple positions adds depth to the Liberty’s frontcourt.
The Liberty’s balanced attack and strong defensive schemes have been a key part of their success. They will likely focus on using their size and shooting to control the game against the Mercury.
Phoenix Mercury
The Phoenix Mercury have had a challenging season, dealing with injuries and inconsistencies. However, they still possess talented players who can impact the game:
- Brittney Griner: Returning to the court this season, Griner remains a dominant force in the paint. Her scoring, shot-blocking, and rebounding are crucial for Phoenix, especially against a strong Liberty frontcourt.
- Diana Taurasi: The veteran guard continues to be a significant offensive contributor for the Mercury. Her leadership and ability to score in clutch moments make her a key player, particularly in close games.
- Sophie Cunningham: Known for her tenacity and shooting ability, Cunningham adds depth and energy to the Mercury’s rotation. Her perimeter shooting will be important to stretch the Liberty’s defense.
The Mercury will need to focus on ball movement and solid defense to counter the Liberty’s offensive weapons. Containing New York’s stars and executing efficiently on offense will be crucial for Phoenix to compete.
Key Matchup
The battle in the paint between Breanna Stewart and Brittney Griner will be pivotal. Both players can significantly impact the game on both ends of the court, and their matchup will likely influence the overall flow and outcome of the game.
Liberty vs. Mercury Prediction
Take Breanna Stewart to go under 19.5 points (-115). Stewart’s scoring is currently down. Since the WNBA has returned from its All-Star and Summer Olympics hiatus, Stewart has scored 27 points at Los Angeles and 26 versus Dallas, but otherwise has scored 19 or fewer points in three of her last five games. She’s still active on the glass and her assists numbers have seen a slow uptick, but her scoring has been more sporadic. Could she go off tonight? It’s always possible with Stewart. That said, I see her falling under 20 points for the fourth time since the WNBA has returned for its second half.
Liberty vs. Mercury WNBA Prediction: Breanna Stewart under 19.5 Points (-115)
