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On June 19, 2025, the New York Liberty fell 89-81 to the Phoenix Mercury at Barclays Center, largely due to a Mercury vs Liberty Jonquel Jones injury in the second quarter.
Jones’ re-aggravated right ankle injury forced her exit, shifting momentum and costing the defending champions their first home loss, stunning U.S. fans.
What Happened to Jonquel Jones?
When Jonquel Jones was injured in the Mercury vs Liberty game, it happened at the 8:35 mark in the second quarter. The 2024 WNBA Finals MVP, Jones, tried to lay up but landed in a weird and awkward position on the foot of Mercury guard Sami Whitcomb, re-breaking her right ankle.
She grabbed her knee in pain but was diagnosed with an ankle issue, per ESPN. Jones limped off with help from trainer Terri Acosta and did not return.
Game Impact
Without Jones, the Liberty struggled. Breanna Stewart’s 35 points couldn’t close the gap, as Phoenix’s 16-6 fourth-quarter run sealed the win.
The Makani was a rookie, Monique Akoa, who topped the Mercury with 21 points, and Alyssa Thomas contributed 18 points and 15 rebounds to the score.
The Liberty’s 20 turnovers and 32 rebounds (vs. Mercury’s 42) highlighted their defensive woes, per The Athletic.
- Key Moment: Whitcomb’s 3-pointer gave Phoenix an 84-74 lead with 3:10 left.
- Rebound Disparity: Mercury’s 15 offensive rebounds fueled second-chance points.
Jones’s Importance to Liberty
The Liberty’s 10-2 record depends on Jones, who averages 13.4 points and 10.3 rebounds. Her absence exposed their thin frontcourt, with Nyara Sabally stepping in but unable to match Jones’ presence.
According to Newsday, the Liberty is 28-0 in regular-season play with Jones pulling a double-double. Her prior ankle injury on June 5 caused a two-game absence, making this re-injury concerning.
Reactions and Insights
Liberty coach Sandy Brondello called the injury “unfortunate,” offering no update, per Yahoo Sports. Teammate Kennedy Burke said, “JJ’s fine,” but Jones left in a walking boot, per NetsDaily.
ESPN’s Buster Olney noted, “Losing Jones shrinks their margin for error,” highlighting her defensive impact. The Jonquel Jones injury in the Mercury vs Liberty changed the power of teams, as Brondello confessed.
Key Stats
- Jones: 0 points, 0 rebounds (exited early), 8:35 played.
- Liberty: 42.6FG, 20 to, 18/26 missed 3PTs.
- Mercury: 21 points (Akoa Makani), 42 rebounds, 81.5 % FT.
- Source: ESPN.
Analysis: A Costly Loss
The Mercury vs Liberty Jonquel Jones injury exposed vulnerabilities in New York’s lineup. Jones’ rebounding and paint presence are unmatched, and her absence allowed Phoenix’s 26 second-chance points.
For beginners, this shows how one injury can shift a game. With a four-game road trip looming, including a matchup against Seattle on June 22, the Liberty face adversity without their star center.
What’s Next?
The Liberty awaits updates on Jones’ ankle, with MLB.com reporting a possible multi-game absence. Phoenix, riding a four-game win streak, faces Chicago next.
Fans can track updates on WNBA.com. The Mercury vs Liberty Jonquel Jones injury raises questions about New York’s title defense.
Final Thoughts
The Jonquel Jones injury in the Mercury vs Liberty game was the highlight of how rough a night New York had. Jones’ early exit disrupted their rhythm, letting Phoenix capitalize.
Her recovery will shape the Liberty’s playoff push, leaving U.S. fans hopeful for her return. This loss underscores the WNBA’s intensity and unpredictability.
Call-to-Action: How will the Liberty fare without Jones? Share your predictions below.
Liberty star Jonquel Jones exits game vs. Mercury with apparent leg injury. Will provide updates as we get themhttps://t.co/Wuca7RAhZg
— Fiifi Frimpong (@FiifiFrimpong) June 19, 2025
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