Liberty’s Defensive Struggles: A Season of Challenges
The New York Liberty, a team that initially showcased defensive prowess, is now grappling with significant challenges as the season progresses. After a promising start where they held every opponent under 88 points in their first nine games, the team’s defensive form has notably deteriorated.
Current Defensive Concerns
Although the Liberty currently boasts the second-best defensive rating in the WNBA at 97.3, they were recently humbled by the Phoenix Mercury, who scored 106 points against them. This was not just a one-off; they’ve allowed over 100 points for the second time in six games. The team’s head coach Sandy Brondello and offseason acquisition Natasha Cloud did not hold back while criticizing the team’s defensive lapses following the Mercury game.
Key Stats:
- Defensive Rating: 97.3 (2nd in WNBA)
- Recent Defensive Rating: 107.2 (4th worst over the past two weeks)
- Points Allowed Against Phoenix: 106
Missing Key Players
The Liberty are set to face the Atlanta Dream soon, but they will again be without two starters due to injuries:
- Leonie Fiebich – Currently participating in EuroBasket with Germany.
- Jonquel Jones – Suffering from a right ankle sprain, projected to miss at least another three to five weeks.
Brondello made it clear postgame that the absence of these players should not serve as an excuse for the team’s performance. “I don’t care who’s not with us,” she stated, emphasizing the need for the remaining players to step up.
The Reality of their Performance
Following the recent game against Phoenix, Brondello labeled her team as "soft" for allowing 61 points in the first half and surrendering an alarming 18 three-pointers. The Mercury became the seventh Liberty opponent in the last eight games to shoot over 41% from the field.
Observations from the Game:
- Points Allowed in First Half: 61
- Three-Pointers Surrendered: 18
- Field Goal Percentage Against: >41% for 7 of last 8 games
Offensive Power vs. Defensive Responsibility
While the Liberty have been recognized for their offensive capabilities, including the best offensive rating in the league at 108.5, their success is contingent on solid defensive play. They set and later tied the record for the most three-pointers in a game, scoring 19 on one occasion.
However, as Natasha Cloud pointedly stated, “If we don’t get stops, that offense doesn’t mean anything.” This acknowledgment highlights the urgent need for the Liberty to bolster their defensive efforts if they aim for success in the postseason.
Key Offensive Stats:
- Offensive Rating: 108.5 (Best in WNBA)
- Record Three-Pointers in a Game: 19
What Lies Ahead
The Liberty are hoping to reintegrate Fiebich soon, but they will not have Laney-Hamilton back this season. This ongoing uncertainty around player availability highlights the team’s need to adapt quickly to various challenges.
In the wake of these difficulties, the Liberty have a chance to reassess and recommit to their defensive strategies. Until their key players return, they must find a way to maintain their competitive edge.
Upcoming Strategies:
- Foster a tougher defensive mindset.
- Focus on consistent defensive play throughout the entire game.
- Utilize offensive strengths to complement defensive efforts.
Conclusion
As the Liberty progress through their season, the balancing act between offensive firepower and defensive grit becomes increasingly critical. With significant games on the horizon, the team must rise to the challenge if they hope to contend for championships in the WNBA landscape.
For further insights, you can follow the latest updates on WNBA or check out Liberty’s upcoming matches.
