The defending champions, the New York Liberty, are one win away from advancing to the semifinals of the 2025 WNBA Playoffs and continuing on with their defense. But the gutsy Phoenix Mercury stands in their way as a team that’s built on collective play, with coach Nate Tibbetts’ system thriving on bringing the ball around. This is opposed to coach Sandy Brondello’s roster, which is filled with star power and individual standout talent.
But, the result of game two for the four-versus-five seed of this year’s postseason play may very much boil down to one factor: the availability of three-time WNBA champion Breanna Stewart for the Liberty. Despite New York pulling away with the seven-point, 76-69, victory in game one in away territory, Stewart unfortunately limped away from the court with a left knee injury during the dying minutes of the overtime thriller.
Whether or not Stewart does suit up, both teams pose problems for each other and can potentially steal the do-or-die game two. Let’s take a look at Wednesday’s matchup.
Read More: Phoenix Mercury vs New York Liberty: Tickets, How To Watch, Schedule and More
New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury: Key Players to Watch
Besides Breanna Stewart, the other star for the Liberty is four-time WNBA All-Star Sabrina Ionescu. The former Oregon Duck is expected to light it up from the perimeter once again, but should she not be backed by Stewart, the likes of standouts Natasha Cloud and Leonie Fiebich will have to continue to elevate their performances. Even names like Kennedy Burke may have to provide a spark off the bench.
As mentioned, Phoenix relies heavily on the team play that is spearheaded by players such as Alyssa Thomas, Kahleah Cooper and Satou Sabally. But, as game one has shown, the Mercury may have the deeper bench against the Liberty with Dewanna Bonner stepping up to provide 12 points off the bench. With this, Ionescu and the rest of the Liberty will have to shoulder an extra load should Stewart sit out game two.
Odds and Betting Lines for New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury
Moneyline: Mercury (+125) vs. Liberty (-145)
Spread: Mercury +2.5 (-110) vs. Liberty -2.5 (-110)
Total (O/U): Mercury, u159.5 (-110), Liberty o159.5 (-110)
New York Liberty vs. Phoenix Mercury Predictions
If Breanna Stewart does end up playing in game two, and the fact that they will play in the Barclays Center in Brooklyn, New York, then the likelihood of that outcome is that coach Brondello’s Liberty moves on to the semifinal and continues on with their title defense. But, time and time again, the Mercury have shown that they are formidable when playing as a team, one that could steal game two and force a deciding game three if they stick to their system.
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