Liberty trounced by Dream as Sabrina Ionescu sits in missed chance to climb standings

The New York Liberty, following a statement win against the Lynx, suffered a 78-62 loss to the Atlanta Dream, marking their second consecutive defeat since that victory. Kennedy Burke had previously described the team as "unstoppable" when playing together, but they were unable to replicate that performance in this game.

Several key players were sidelined due to injuries, including Sabrina Ionescu (left foot), Breanna Stewart (right knee), Nyara Sabally (right knee), and Isabelle Harrison (concussion protocol). This forced the Liberty to use their 13th unique starting lineup of the season, which included Marine Johannès, Natasha Cloud, Leonie Fiebich, Emma Meesseman, and Jonquel Jones.

The Liberty struggled significantly in the first half, committing nine of their 14 turnovers during the first two quarters. Jonquel Jones, who finished with 11 points and eight rebounds, noted that many of these turnovers were uncharacteristic of the team and attributed them to a lack of focus and execution.

Although the Liberty improved in the second half, outscoring the Dream 33-30, their first-half deficit proved too large to overcome. Coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged the team's better connectivity and effort after halftime but emphasized that poor execution in the early stages cost them the game.

Recurring issues persisted, as the Liberty were outrebounded 42-33 and allowed 17 offensive rebounds, leading to 21 second-chance points for the Dream. The absence of multiple starters further compounded these challenges, highlighting the team's ongoing struggles with consistency and depth.