Shorthanded Liberty’s rut continues with sloppy loss to Storm

SEATTLE – As Storm star Nneka Ogwumike’s shot dropped through the rim late in the fourth quarter, Sandy Brondello turned and walked toward the bench.

Her look of disappointment said it all.

The Liberty let another winnable game slip through their fingertips as they fell 89-79.

The Liberty were without three starters, including Sabrina Ionescu who woke up with a kink in her neck Sunday morning.

But they managed to hang around the Storm all game, but never mustered up a big enough run to take the game over.

Breanna Stewart dribbles during the Liberty-Storm game on June 22, 2025. NBAE via Getty Images

Sunday was their third loss in four games.

The Liberty committed a season-high 21 turnovers, which Seattle turned into 22 points.

Breanna Stewart finished with 18 points, nine rebounds and seven assists. Marine Johannès added 17 points and five rebounds. 

Meanwhile, Ogwumike had a game-high 26 points.

Nneka Ogwumike looks on during the Storm-Liberty game on June 22, 2025. NBAE via Getty Images

Sunday may as well have been a reminder of Ionescu’s importance – as if anyone needed that. 

She’s the team’s motor. One of the main players who can get a bucket when the team needs it.

There were times when the Liberty’s offense got clunky and out of sync. Overall, though, New York finished with a balanced scoring effort, with every player on the floor recording at least two points. 

The Liberty return to action Wednesday when they make their first trip to Golden State.