With a new season and reinvigorated rivals, the New York Liberty encountered new challenges during the 2025 season. But despite the good start, the franchise could not string together a good winning streak and dropped to fifth place in the league standings. The Phoenix Mercury had been their strongest rivals, and following a recent defeat, Breanna Stewart had some stern words for her teammates.
Recently, the New York Liberty had an emergency meeting following a defeat to the Dallas Wings. However, the team’s losing streak was not over as the team lost eight of 14 matches since August.
Breanna Stewart Looks Back On Loss To The Phoenix Mercury
The defending champions were among the strong contenders for the title in the 2025 season. However, their current form is quite concerning, particularly with defeats over the bottom-place teams such as the Connecticut Sun, Chicago Sky, and Dallas Wings.
While teams like the Las Vegas Aces, the Minnesota Lynx and the Phoenix Mercury are putting in clinical efforts, the Liberty’s recent struggle is a warning sign for HC Sandy Brondello’s team. Answering to the questions over the possible reasons for a loss against the Mercury, Stewart spoke about mindset and efforts on the court.
“I think what was said is, like it’s not good enough. It’s not going to cut it, any of the things we’ve done today. This is not championship-level basketball at this point and everybody needs to recognize that and understand that we need to get there and that starts with the mindset and then putting it onto the court,” the veteran forward said in the press conference.
Although the side had a comfortable lead in the first half, the Mercury’s strong second-half gameplay and winning the loose-ball battle (scored 39 points off turnovers and second-chance opportunities) handed the Liberty its 16th loss of the season.
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"This is not championship-level basketball at this point and everybody needs to recognize that and understand that we need to get there and that starts with the mindset and then putting it onto the court."
— New York Liberty Videos (@SNYLiberty) August 31, 2025
– Breanna Stewart after last night's loss pic.twitter.com/c46cmjIp7m
Alyssa Thomas was effective once again for the hosts at the PHX arena. Tomas even set a franchise record during a win over the Liberty, adding an impressive record to her incredible season. As for the defending champions, it might be time to regroup and rethink the responsibilities to challenge the stronger opponents in the league.
Breanna Stewart Holds The Key To The Liberty’s Success
The former UConn player won four NCAA Championships and four Most Outstanding Player Awards during her college career. The record holder hates losing, and her strong words clearly hint at a wake-up call for her teammates. Still, the superstar will be a key player in the Liberty’s playoff run.
The 6-foot-4 forward is not only defensively strong but can fill in playmaker and scorer roles effectively. In the 2025 season, she leads the team in steals and blocks and holds second position in the scoring and rebounds. Her overall game helps the NY side gain an advantage in the close games and locks down the opponent’s offense.