Insider reveals NY Liberty star Breanna Stewart’s injury update amid looming uncertainty for Game 2 against Phoenix Mercury

It appears that the New York Liberty will have to fight for their playoff survival without Breanna Stewart, who is dealing with a left knee injury suffered late in Game 1 of their opening-round series against the Phoenix Mercury.

An insider confirmed that Stewart underwent an MRI on Monday, but the team has yet to release an official update on her availability for Wednesday’s Game 2 at Barclays Center.

Breanna Stewart’s injury casts shadow on NY Liberty's playoff push

Breanna Stewart went down with just over three minutes left in overtime of New York’s 76-69 win in Phoenix. Driving baseline against Satou Sabally, she drew a foul and scored, but her knee appeared to buckle on the landing. She briefly returned to shoot a free throw and play a few possessions, but asked to come out shortly after.

“We’ll just be hoping that she’ll be OK,” Liberty coach Sandy Brondello said following the game.

The two-time WNBA MVP finished with 18 points, six rebounds, and four assists before exiting. Her injury history adds to the concern as she missed 13 games earlier this season with a bone bruise in her right knee. In those games without her, New York managed just a 5-8 record, compared to 22-9 when she played. Now, as an insider has revealed that Stewart is getting an MRI (per an anonymous insider telling AP), her game 2 status remains uncertain.

NY Liberty eye closeout against Phoenix Mercury

The Liberty, already tested by injuries this season, know Stewart’s absence would leave a massive void. Jonquel Jones sat out time with a sprained ankle, while Sabrina Ionescu missed games due to a toe issue. Still, the front office added veteran forward Emma Meesseman in August, a former Finals MVP who could step into a larger role if Stewart is sidelined.Teammates emphasized that their concern goes beyond basketball. “This is a close locker room inside. We care about Stewie more than just the basketball player. She did her job today. She got us to a dub. But we’re concerned about her,” Natasha Cloud said after the win.Also Read: Breanna Stewart injury update: New York Liberty star exits game 1 against Phoenix Mercury after apparent left knee troubleThe Mercury, meanwhile, are facing elimination and will look to capitalize if Stewart cannot go. Game 2 tips off Wednesday evening in New York.