New York, NY- The air was thick with anticipation at Barclays Center on Thursday night, June 19, 2025. The New York Liberty, reigning WNBA champions, were battling the Phoenix Mercury in a crucial mid-season clash. But as the second quarter unfolded, a collective gasp rippled through the stands, quickly followed by a pall of concern. Star center and reigning WNBA Finals MVP, Jonquel Jones, went down, clutching her right ankle after an awkward landing. It was a sight that sent shivers down the spines of Liberty fans and analysts alike – a re-aggravation of the same right ankle injury that had sidelined her just days prior.
Jones, a dominant force in the paint and a pivotal component of the Liberty’s championship machinery, had only just returned to the court on Tuesday after missing two games due to the initial ankle sprain on June 5. Her return was met with relief, signaling a potential return to full strength for a team with championship aspirations. Now, that optimism is overshadowed by a wave of uncertainty.
The incident occurred early in the second quarter. Jones, driving aggressively to the basket, collided with Mercury defender Sami Whitcomb. The immediate visual was alarming, as Jones initially grabbed her knee, leading to fears of a more severe, potentially season-ending, injury. However, the official word from the Liberty offered a slight sigh of relief, confirming it was indeed a re-injury to her right ankle. While avoiding a knee injury is certainly a positive, the recurring nature of the ankle problem raises serious questions about her long-term availability and impact on the Liberty’s quest for another title.
Jones’s importance to the New York Liberty cannot be overstated. The 2021 WNBA MVP and 2024 Finals MVP is the team’s anchor on both ends of the floor. This season, she has been averaging a robust double-double, putting up 13.4 points and 10.3 rebounds per game. Her presence commands attention in the paint, opening up opportunities for perimeter shooters like Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart. Defensively, her shot-blocking and rebounding prowess are unmatched, providing a crucial last line of defense.
In the immediate aftermath of her exit, the Liberty struggled to maintain their rhythm, ultimately succumbing to an 89-81 defeat against the Mercury. The loss itself, while disappointing, pales in comparison to the potential ramifications of Jones’s prolonged absence. Head Coach Sandy Brondello, speaking after the game, understandably offered little in the way of concrete updates, stating it was “too early to tell” the severity. However, a surprising note of optimism came from teammate Kennedy Burke, who, despite Jones being helped off the court, claimed Jones was “fine.” While such an optimistic outlook from a teammate is encouraging, a thorough MRI will be the definitive measure of the injury’s true nature and impact on her return timeline.
This isn’t Jones’s first dance with the injury bug. Her 2023 season was hampered by a foot injury, and she’s experienced other minor setbacks throughout her career. For the Liberty, this re-aggravation is a test of their depth and resilience. While they boast a formidable roster with other All-Stars, the unique blend of skill, experience, and leadership that Jones brings is irreplaceable.
The road ahead for the New York Liberty, who were 10-2 before this loss, now looks considerably tougher. They embark on a challenging four-game road trip, starting with a clash against the Seattle Storm. How will they adapt without their defensive anchor and offensive fulcrum? Can Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu shoulder an even heavier load? The answers to these questions will define the Liberty’s season. Fans will be eagerly awaiting further medical updates on Jonquel Jones, hoping for a swift and complete recovery, as her health remains paramount to the Liberty’s championship aspirations.
