The New York Liberty’s 2025 season has been a rollercoaster. They finished with a (27-17) record that secured them a playoff berth and also gave them the confidence to challenge any opponent.
That momentum showed in Game 1 when they edged out the Phoenix Mercury in a (76-69) overtime victory. But the excitement quickly dimmed. As in Game 2, Phoenix responded with a commanding (86-60) win to tie the series at 1-1.
With everything on the line in Game 3, fans now have only one burning question on their minds: whether Breanna Stewart will be on the court tonight or not.
Will Breanna Stewart Suit up Against the Phoenix Mercury on September 19?
There’s good news for Liberty fans. According to the latest ESPN injury report, no New York player is listed, which means the team will have a fully healthy roster available for September 19’s pivotal matchup.
That includes Stewart, whose health status has been a major concern after a scary moment in Game 1.
Stewart was crucial in New York’s overtime win on Sunday as she finished with 18 points before suffering what looked like a painful knee injury. The incident occurred late in overtime when she drove along the sideline, finished a layup through contact, and drew a foul.
She stayed down on the floor while clutching her knee and exited the game with just over two minutes left. The team later confirmed that Stewart had suffered a sprained MCL, which sparked immediate questions about her postseason availability.
In Game 2, she suited up but was clearly limited and managed only six points and two rebounds as the Liberty struggled to find their rhythm. The fact that she’s not listed on the injury report, however, suggests she’s ready to push through and lead her team when it matters most.
The Condition of the Phoenix Mercury Squad
The Liberty aren’t the only ones entering Game 3 at full strength. ESPN’s latest update also confirms that the Phoenix Mercury will field a healthy roster tonight. That means key contributors like Satou Sabally and Alyssa Thomas will be on the court, bringing physicality and toughness to the battle against New York.
If we look at Game 2 on September 17, Phoenix showcased just how dangerous they can be. While the teams were tied after the opening quarter, the Mercury blew the game wide open by halftime as they led by 14 points.
Satou Sabally & Alyssa Thomas were persistent in the @PhoenixMercury‘s win against the Liberty 86-60 ❗️
Their efforts helped the Mercury force a Game 3 and get their first playoff win since Game 2 of the 2021 WNBA Finals!
Alyssa Thomas: 15 PTS | 6 REB | 7 AST
Satou Sabally: 15… pic.twitter.com/WXKkfrd0oT
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 18, 2025
In the fourth quarter, Phoenix had the largest lead of the game of 31 points and even dominated with a 17-point burst that New York simply couldn’t counter.
With the series tied (1-1), Game 3 at PHX Arena has become a must-win clash, and for New York to bounce back, stars like Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones will need to step up offensively and support Stewart, especially if her knee continues to limit her explosiveness.
