New York Liberty guard Marine Johannes sparked a decisive fourth-quarter run, scoring 17 points to help her team secure an 82-75 victory over the Connecticut Sun on Saturday, according to game reports from the Associated Press and Doug Feinberg. The win lifted New York to a 22-14 record as the franchise played without Sabrina Ionescu, who sat out after tweaking her left ankle during a previous win over Los Angeles.
How Marine Johannes and Jonquel Jones Powered the Liberty Past the Sun
Playing in Connecticut, the Liberty overcame a slow start that saw them fall behind 27-19 after the first quarter, according to game reporting from the Associated Press. Jonquel Jones led New York with 23 points, scoring 19 in the first half alone to help the visitors claim a 46-37 halftime lead. Connecticut kept the pressure on, trimming the deficit to 63-62 early in the fourth quarter. With the shot clock expiring, Johannes drilled a one-legged, off-balance 3-pointer to stretch the lead to 66-62. That shot ignited a game-closing 10-2 run for New York.
According to Doug Feinberg, Johannes capped the decisive burst with another deep shot. Her performance filled a major offensive gap left by the absence of Ionescu, who Liberty Coach Chris DeMarco said before Saturday’s game was day to day and they were being precautionary with her.
Roster Shuffling and Injury Notes for New York and Connecticut
The Liberty managed their rotation through multiple health concerns. Breanna Stewart experienced a cold start, missing her first seven shots before converting with 2:32 remaining in the second quarter, and finished the matchup with 11 points, as reported by the Associated Press. New York entered the contest having won nine of their past 11 games.
The host Sun also played shorthanded. According to game accounts, Brittney Griner missed the game due to a left knee issue, while Aaliyah Edwards sat out with a left ankle injury sustained against Atlanta. Olivia Nelson-Ododa paced Connecticut with 21 points and 10 rebounds in the loss.
Did you know? Saturday’s matchup marked Jonquel Jones’ final game playing in Connecticut, as the Sun are moving to Houston next year. Jones spent six seasons with the Sun before coming to New York in 2023.
Upcoming Schedule
Following this victory, the New York Liberty travel to face the Chicago Sky on Tuesday. Meanwhile, the Connecticut Sun return to action on Tuesday to host the Los Angeles Sparks in Boston, according to the Associated Press schedule.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did Sabrina Ionescu miss the game against Connecticut?
Sabrina Ionescu missed the game because she tweaked her left ankle during an 85-81 victory over Los Angeles, leading Liberty Coach Chris DeMarco to state that she was day to day and they were being precautionary with her.
How many points did Marine Johannes score against the Sun?
Marine Johannes scored 17 points, including a critical off-balance 3-pointer that sparked a fourth-quarter run to secure the win.
Who led the New York Liberty in scoring against Connecticut?
Jonquel Jones led the Liberty with 23 points, which included 19 points scored during the first half.
What is the next game for the New York Liberty?
The Liberty travel to play the Chicago Sky on Tuesday.
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