New York Liberty forward Jonquel Jones is listed as questionable ahead of their upcoming game against the Golden State Valkyries on May 29, 2025, due to a recent hamstring injury. This update comes as the Liberty aim to sustain their undefeated record, with Jones playing a crucial role in their offensive and defensive strategies.
Jonquel Jones’ Key Role in Liberty’s Early Season Success
Standing at six-foot-six, Jonquel Jones is widely recognized for her versatility as a stretch four who can effectively operate both inside and outside the paint. Head coach Sandy Brondello praised Jones, saying,
“She’s a stretch four. She can play inside. She can play outside. She’s great in the pick and roll. She’s a facilitator,”
highlighting the forward’s ability to adapt quickly between roles on the court. Jones’ leadership and all-around skills have been instrumental in maintaining the Liberty’s top ranking throughout the season.
The Liberty launched their 2025 campaign on May 17 and have maintained a perfect 4-0 record to date. Their recent 95-67 win against Natalie Nakase’s Golden State Valkyries demonstrated Jones’ dominance, particularly through her physicality and rebounding. Despite the Valkyries’ efforts, Jones showcased superior size and strength, forcing the opposing head coach to call a timeout after Jones’ wide-open 3-pointer. Moments later, Jones delivered another three-point shot, helping the Liberty secure a narrow 90-88 victory over the Indiana Fever in an intense prior matchup.
Jones has averaged 16 points, 9.8 rebounds, and 3.8 assists throughout the season. During the first encounter with the Valkyries on May 28, she posted an impressive stat line with 13 points, 10 rebounds, and 5 assists, setting up another Liberty win. Fans eagerly anticipate her impact as the Liberty prepare to host the Valkyries again, this time at the Barclays Center in Brooklyn.
Injury Concerns Cloud Upcoming Matchup Against Golden State
Recently, Jones sustained a hamstring pull, triggering concerns about her availability for the second game against the Valkyries. Although the New York Liberty have not released detailed information about her condition, the announcement from Official Underdog WNBA on X (formerly Twitter) stirred attention among supporters. Their update read,
“Jonquel Jones (knee) now questionable Thursday.”
This ambiguous status has led fans to speculate whether Jones will rest during this critical clash or take the court one last time before recuperating.
Jones’ recent performance against the Indiana Fever, where she scored 26 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and contributed 3 assists, was central to the Liberty’s narrow 90-88 win. Her ability to create possessions and generate scoring chances has been a vital component of New York’s strategy, illustrating the potential challenge the Liberty could face if she remains sidelined.
Alongside Jones, Liberty center Nyara Sabally is also listed as questionable with a knee injury and remains on a day-to-day status. ESPN reports,
“Sabally (knee) has been listed as questionable for Thursday’s game against the Valkyries, Myles Ehrlich of Winsidr.com reports.”
Sabally has a reputation for quick recoveries, and the team is hopeful for her return in the near future.
Potential Lineup Adjustments if Injuries Persist
Should both Jones and Sabally miss the upcoming game, the Liberty will likely depend on veteran Kayla Thornton and rookie Leonie Fiebich to fill the void. Thornton has averaged 12.8 points per game against the Valkyries, demonstrating her readiness to take on additional responsibility, especially in the paint. Meanwhile, Fiebich brings a combination of agility and versatility that could help balance the squad’s dynamics during the absence of key players.
Golden State Valkyries’ Roster Challenges Ahead of Rematch
The Golden State Valkyries also face significant injury issues, which may impact their competitiveness against the Liberty. Several notable players, including Monique Billings, Cecilia Zandalasini, and Tiffany Hayes, are expected to miss the game or remain uncertain for tip-off. Bay Area News Group’s Nathan Canilao confirmed that Zandalasini has been ruled out due to a foot injury, a status reinforced by ESPN’s announcement. Meanwhile, Billings and Hayes are listed on a day-to-day or questionable basis, adding to the Valkyries’ roster uncertainty.
Despite these setbacks, the Valkyries are motivated after their initial defeat to the Liberty. Head coach Natalie Nakase emphasized their team’s aggressive defensive identity by stating,
“We did it day one in camp. Killers. That’s our identity,”
signaling their readiness to challenge the unbeaten New York squad with a renewed defensive mindset.
Game Dynamics and the Impact on Liberty’s Strategies
The Liberty’s undefeated streak faces a crucial test without a fully fit Jonquel Jones, whose playmaking and scoring have been central to their success. If Jones is unable to participate, veteran players such as Natasha Cloud, Sabrina Ionescu, and Marine Johannes will need to elevate their performance levels to compensate. This may include intensified defensive schemes and more aggressive offensive drives to offset Jones’ absence in the paint.
The second matchup against the Valkyries not only tests New York’s depth but also highlights how both teams cope with injury challenges. For the Valkyries, the opportunity to avenge their earlier loss provides strong motivation, despite missing key players. The outcome of this contest will likely influence the standing momentum early in the WNBA season.