Breanna Stewart to Play in Game 2 Despite Knee Injury

In a dramatic twist, New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart says she’s playing in Game 2 against the Phoenix Mercury, even after spraining her left MCL in the series opener. Stewart skipped Tuesday’s practice, but she did show up for Wednesday morning’s shootaround, her knee wrapped in a leg sleeve.

With New York up 1-0 in the series, Stewart’s decision could keep the Liberty from a stressful Game 3 in Phoenix. You can’t help but notice her determination—she’s weighing the risk of making things worse against her drive to help her team.

The Road to Game 2

Stewart hurt her knee with just over three minutes left in overtime during Game 1. She drove hard on the left baseline, finished the layup, drew a foul—and then landed awkwardly, grabbing her left knee in pain.

She pushed through for another 54 seconds before finally asking out of the game. New York led by seven at that point, and her exit felt like a call to protect both the lead and her leg.

Medical Evaluation and Recovery

After the game, Stewart got an MRI on Monday morning. The results came back within the hour, showing no structural damage.

That news brought a huge sigh of relief for Stewart and the Liberty. By Wednesday, she rated her pain at just a three out of ten—a big improvement that nudged her toward playing in Game 2.

She admits there’s a risk. Still, she wants to be out there for her teammates.

Team and Coach Reactions

Liberty guard Natasha Cloud called Stewart tough as nails. Coach Sandy Brondello made it clear: finishing the series at home matters a lot.

Brondello pointed out that Phoenix will come in hungry, so the Liberty need to take full advantage of their home court. Mercury coach Nate Tibbetts said his team is preparing as if Stewart will play, which just shows how much respect she commands.

Stewart’s Season and Injury History

It’s been a rough season for Stewart. She missed 13 games with a bone bruise on her right knee.

Earlier, she had surgery on that same knee in March after wrapping up Unrivaled, the winter 3×3 league she helped start. Even with all that, Stewart’s stayed at the heart of the Liberty—her resilience and leadership haven’t faded.

The Stakes of Game 2

New York leads the series 1-0 after a gritty overtime win. If they grab Game 2, that’s it—they move on, no need for a tense trip to Phoenix.

Stewart and Brondello both seem eager to avoid that. The Liberty will probably lean hard on their home crowd and try to ride the momentum from Game 1.

Fan and Media Reactions

Fans and media can’t stop talking about Stewart’s decision. Some admire her guts, others worry about her knee.

Analysts say her presence could swing the game, giving the Liberty a mental and tactical edge. Fans, meanwhile, are buzzing—hoping Stewart’s grit will seal the deal for New York.

Breanna Stewart’s decision to suit up for Game 2 against the Phoenix Mercury really shows her grit and commitment to her team.

The Liberty already lead the series 1-0. Her presence on the court could make all the difference in locking down a win and skipping a stressful trip back to Phoenix.

People across the basketball world are watching closely. Stewart’s resilience and leadership seem to inspire her teammates and fans—honestly, it’s hard not to root for her.

Want more details on Stewart’s injury and her Game 2 plans? Check out the full article on the New York Times.