Liberty and Mercury Set for Critical WNBA Playoff Showdown

PHOENIX, Arizona – Aug 30, 2025 – The New York Liberty will take on the Phoenix Mercury in a pivotal WNBA matchup tonight that could determine playoff positioning. Both teams are vying for crucial home-court advantage as the regular season winds down.

The Liberty, currently sitting in the fifth seed, scored a memorable win over the Washington Mystics this week despite facing a shorthanded roster, with only eight players available. They won the game by 26 points, providing a much-needed morale boost.

The Mercury, led by head coach Nate Tibbets, stand in the fourth position after narrowly defeating the Chicago Sky, 83-79, on Thursday. A half game currently separates the two teams in the standings, making tonight’s game crucial for playoff implications.

Brooklyn’s Liberty will again be without key players due to injuries. Natasha Cloud is questionable with a nose injury, while Jonquel Jones missed the last game due to illness. Sabrina Ionescu is also listed as questionable as she recovers from a leg injury sustained earlier this season. In contrast, the Mercury report no significant injury concerns.

Tonight’s game will be broadcasted on MY9, FOX Local, and NBATV, with coverage starting after 10 PM local time.

The last time the two teams met, the Liberty faltered, lacking star players like Jones. Tonight, they hope to capitalize on a fuller roster. The stakes are high, as both teams understand that a loss may jeopardize playoff position.

Star player Alyssa Thomas, a standout for Phoenix, is making waves with her performance and is a candidate for the Most Valuable Player award. She has exhibited remarkable versatility on the court, making her a cornerstone of the Mercury’s strategy.

Looking ahead, players like Satou Sabally are positioned to make a significant impact tonight, potentially solidifying her status as an elite WNBA player. Meanwhile, Breanna Stewart seeks to contribute as she deals with a minutes restriction but aims to leverage her skills to help the Liberty dominate on the boards.

As these teams clash, the focus on three-point shooting will be critical. The Liberty rank second in the league for three-point shooting efficiency, while the Mercury are seventh. A hot shooting night could be the tipping point for either side.

This matchup is not only crucial for playoff implications but also a chance for both teams to showcase their talent and determination as they head toward the postseason.