Liberty’s Struggles: Navigating Injuries and Defensive Lapses
The New York Liberty face adversity as key players succumb to injury and offensive strategies are challenged. Their championship aspirations remain, but the team must address critical issues. The team is working to reclaim their dominant position in the WNBA.
Challenges at the Point of Attack
The Liberty have recently struggled to win the battle at the point of attack (POA), both offensively and defensively. The team has lost games due to defensive breakdowns. Their ball-screen defense has been particularly vulnerable, especially with key players out.
The absence of Leonie Fiebich, a strong POA defender, and Jonquel Jones, known for her ball-screen coverages and rim protection, has hurt New York. The team’s defensive ranking has dropped in the past four games.
Liberty have been filleted by ball-screen actions until the 4Q of their victory over ATL
vs. the Fever, they weren’t at the level and/or botching switches, either way unable to apply ball-pressure.
ATL killed them, largely, by getting out of screens quickly and collapsing NYL: pic.twitter.com/0olfPx9fvv
— Lucas Kaplan (@LucasKaplan_) June 19, 2025
The team’s first-year assistant coach, Sonia Raman, emphasizes the need for improved communication, as the team relies on its high basketball IQ. Communication is crucial for success.
On offense, the team’s assist-to-turnover ratio has decreased, and the offense has suffered. During the season, the Liberty’s offensive rating has decreased. Sabrina Ionescu had a challenging game against the Phoenix Mercury, facing relentless pressure.
Defenses are attacking the Liberty at the POA. To counter this, Ionescu needs to give the ball up faster to initiate 4-on-3 opportunities. Her teammates must be ready to make the right reads when attacking.
right here NYL does pass out of the trap, SEA’s rotations are a bit off (both Skylar/Gabby fly toward Stewie), but it still ends in a turnover
not their best passing stretch rn: pic.twitter.com/We7gsz7TxE
— Lucas Kaplan (@LucasKaplan_) June 23, 2025
Cloud’s Role and Offensive Adjustments
The absence of Jones highlights her contributions to the Liberty. Her ability to shoot, pass, and drive from the perimeter helps the offense function. Without her, the team needs to find alternative ways to score.
Natasha Cloud may be key, as she is a capable passer. Her aggressive drives can create scoring chances. The team needs her to be confident and assertive.
Sherrod’s Emergence
Jaylyn Sherrod has been effective in the Liberty’s recent games. She has been given significant minutes and has shown promise. Her performance is a bright spot for the team, showcasing her skills and potential. Sherrod’s energy boosts the team.
With the ongoing challenges, Sherrod put up 8/3/3 and two steals in 14 minutes against Seattle. A player like Kennedy Burke is seen as an answer to some of New York’s problems. The next test will come against the Golden State Valkyries.
According to Statista, the Liberty’s average points per game have seen fluctuations. Despite the setbacks, the Liberty aim to improve.
