The New York Liberty are looking to strengthen their position in the WNBA playoff race, and Breanna Stewart‘s recovery is central to those hopes. Stewart, who suffered a bone bruise in her right knee in late July, has been sidelined since but is aiming to return to action before her August 27 birthday, which could provide a lift for the team as they chase a spot in the WNBA Finals.
Current Injury Status and Rehabilitation Progress
Since sustaining the injury on July 26, Stewart has been limited to supporting her team from the sidelines, much to the disappointment of coach Sandy Brondello. Despite the setback, Stewart has expressed optimism about her recovery and has been actively working out to regain her fitness.
“I feel great. I just finished working out on the court in the back,”
Stewart said on Sunday, according to The Associated Press.
She further explained her focus on giving her leg the necessary time to heal while hoping to return quickly:
“And it’s really just kind of giving my leg, the bone a little bit of time while we have it. But hoping to be back sooner than later and really just wanting to be back with my team.”
Team Standings and Impact of Player Absences
As of August 11, the Liberty hold a 20-11 record and are tied with the Atlanta Dream for second place in the WNBA standings. They trail the Minnesota Lynx, who lead with a 27-5 record, by 6.5 games. Both the Liberty and Lynx have had to navigate the season with significant players sidelined—Stewart on the Liberty’s side and Napheesa Collier, a WNBA MVP candidate, for the Lynx. In addition, Indiana Fever’s Caitlin Clark remains out due to a groin injury, putting further pressure on their respective teams.
Stewart’s Determination to Return by Her Birthday
Stewart has been openly communicating her desire to play again before her upcoming birthday.
“I feel like this is the hardest part for me because I’ve been out,”
Stewart said.
“Like I’ve been out, but I’m not usually out when I can go back in. So I want to be back.”
She has been working closely with the training staff to accelerate her comeback.
“I’m on the training staff to let me be back to free me a little bit. But definitely, like, before my birthday,”
Stewart added.
What a Stewart Return Means for the Liberty and the WNBA
Breanna Stewart’s return could significantly influence the Liberty’s momentum heading into the final stages of the season, as the team looks to outpace rivals and solidify its position for the playoffs. Her presence on the court would not only boost the Liberty’s scoring and defense but also morale, offering veteran leadership when every game matters. Coach Brondello remains hopeful and attentive to Stewart’s progress, anticipating that her comeback will come at a crucial time.