A late Liberty surge, sparked by Marine Johannes, sinks the Sun as Sabrina Ionescu sits
Marine Johannes Ignites Fourth Quarter as Liberty Defeat Sun 82-75
Bharatmorningnews.com – UNCASVILLE, Conn. — The New York Liberty secured a hard-fought victory over the Connecticut Sun on Saturday, prevailing 82-75 behind a strong fourth-quarter performance. Jonquel Jones contributed 23 points to the effort, while Marine Johannes provided the spark that turned the game in New York's favor.
Ionescu's Absence Doesn't Halt Liberty Momentum
New York competed without star guard Sabrina Ionescu, who tweaked her left ankle during Thursday's 85-81 triumph against Los Angeles. Head coach Chris DeMarco indicated prior to Saturday's matchup that the team would be cautious with Ionescu, describing her status as day-to-day.
Despite the absence of their key playmaker, the Liberty maintained their recent success, having won nine of their last eleven contests. However, they began slowly, allowing Connecticut to build a 27-19 advantage after the opening period. This sluggish start followed a defensive lapse in which New York surrendered 40 fourth-quarter points to the Sparks on Thursday.
Jones and Johannes Lead Comeback
Jones found her rhythm early, pouring in 19 points during the first half to help New York rally and establish a 46-37 halftime lead. The Sun remained competitive throughout, holding a narrow 63-62 deficit heading into the final period.
The turning point arrived when the shot clock was about to expire. Johannes launched a one-legged, off-balance three-pointer that extended the lead to 66-62. That basket ignited a decisive 10-2 run for New York. Johannes, who concluded the game with 17 points, capped the surge with another three-pointer.
A Farewell for Jones in Connecticut
This contest marked Jones' final appearance in Connecticut, as the Sun prepare to relocate to Houston next season. After spending six seasons with the franchise before joining New York in 2023, Jones had her No. 35 jersey retired in June during the Liberty's previous visit. The 2021 WNBA MVP was a late scratch for that ceremony because she wasn't feeling well.
Stewart and Sun Face Setbacks
Breanna Stewart experienced a difficult start, missing her first seven attempts before finally scoring with 2:32 remaining in the second quarter. She finished with 11 points. Connecticut also dealt with injuries, as Brittney Griner sat out with a left knee problem and Aaliyah Edwards missed the game due to a left ankle injury sustained against Atlanta on Thursday.
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