Breanna Stewart injury update: New York Liberty star exits game 1 against Phoenix Mercury after apparent left knee trouble

The New York Liberty stole Game 1 of their playoff series with the Phoenix Mercury, winning 76-69 in overtime on Sunday night. But the celebration came with a dark cloud. Star forward Breanna Stewart left the game late in overtime clutching her left knee, leaving her team and fans holding their breath ahead of a decisive Game 2 in New York.With just over three minutes left in the extra period, Stewart scored a tough and-1 layup over Satou Sabally, but the contact left her writhing on the floor in pain. She stayed in to attempt the free throw, which she missed, and tried to play on.Barely a minute later, she asked out of the game and did not return. Stewart finished with 18 points, six rebounds, four assists, and two steals before being replaced by Kennedy Burke.The two-time MVP was spotted wearing a brace on her left knee while sitting on the bench. Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello offered little clarity postgame. “No, no, we only just got back to the locker room,” she said when asked for an update. “I’m sure she’ll be evaluated soon. She asked me to sub her out there, and she looked uncomfortable, so that was the reason we took her out there. And then we’re just, you know, we’ll just be hoping that she’ll be OK.”The injury is especially concerning given Stewart’s history this season. She already missed 13 games over the summer with a bone bruise in her right knee, the opposite leg.Stewart’s absence would be a massive blow for the Liberty, who leaned heavily on her late-game poise. Her midrange jumper tied Game 1 at 65 with just over a minute left in regulation, setting the stage for overtime. New York ultimately pulled away behind Natasha Cloud’s 23 points and Jonquel Jones’ interior presence, but Stewart’s injury overshadowed the victory.The Liberty have battled injuries all year, with Sabrina Ionescu and Jones also missing stretches. They signed former Finals MVP Emma Meesseman in August to bolster their depth, and she may be thrust into a larger role if Stewart is sidelined.Also Read: Atlanta Dream’s Naz Hillmon exposes major weakness of playoff opponent after taking 1-0 playoff lead over Indiana FeverGame 2 tips off Wednesday at Barclays Center, where the Liberty will try to advance without knowing if their superstar will be ready to suit up.