Courtney Vandersloot doubtful, Nyara Sabally out for Liberty vs. Mercury

While they are traveling to the Valley riding on an eight-game winning streak, the New York Liberty are set to clash with the Phoenix Mercury tonight without one of their high draft picks from 2023 and may also miss a WNBA legend.

According to the game status report for the Liberty, veteran Courtney Vandersloot (personal reasons) is doubtful and 2023 fifth-overall pick Nyara Sabally (back) will be inactive.

Vandersloot has spent the past two years in New York since signing as a free agent in 2022, departing from the Chicago Sky. The five-time WNBA All-Star has been in the MVP running in seven seasons and is regarded as one of the more complete players in the league. In her 14-year career, Vandersloot has averaged 10.2 points, 6.8 assists and 3.2 rebounds per game. This season, she has played nine games (all starts), having 7.6 points, 5.3 assists and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Meanwhile for Sabally, she was just getting her second year in the WNBA underway before a back injury kept her out for the past six games and will remain out tonight. Since coming out of Oregon, the German has played 41 games in her young career, averaging 2.4 points, 2.3 rebounds and 0.3 assists per game. The 6-foot-5 center has yet to start since being drafted.

No injuries are on the Mercury’s report for the fifth straight game. Brittney Griner and Rebecca Allen were both out beforehand and have returned as Phoenix will be at full strength yet again. The Mercury last won 87-78 over the Seattle Storm on Sunday.

Both teams will look to win in this enticing battle between two teams who have star power all over the rosters. Former Mercury and current Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello returns to Arizona to help guide New York to victory.

The battle between the Liberty and Mercury begins tonight at 7 p.m. PT inside Footprint Center.