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**Liberty’s Fiebich Departs for EuroBasket, Teammates Vow to Maintain Dominance**

BROOKLYN – The New York Liberty, currently boasting a franchise-best 9-0 start, will face a significant test as rookie standout Leonie Fiebich departs to represent Germany in the EuroBasket Women competition. Before leaving, Fiebich received support from teammate Nyara Sabally, who encouraged her to “get that medal, come back healthy, and let’s keep going.”

Germany is co-hosting the tournament, which begins next week, and Fiebich expressed excitement about playing at home and contributing to the growing attention surrounding German women’s basketball. The German team hasn’t medaled in EuroBasket since 1997, but they finished fifth in last year’s Olympics.

Fiebich’s absence will be felt on both ends of the court. She has been a key starter, known for her defensive prowess and three-point shooting. “We lose a big part,” Sabally acknowledged, emphasizing Fiebich’s defensive capabilities and significant playing time.

However, the Liberty remain confident in their depth. Sabally believes Fiebich’s departure will provide opportunities for other players to step up. “There’s going to be players stepping into that role with her defensive ability, with her length. So I think it’s also going to be a really good opportunity for other people to gel.”

The Liberty’s schedule doesn’t ease up. They face the Indiana Fever on Saturday, marking Caitlin Clark’s return. Upcoming games against Atlanta and Phoenix will further test their mettle. Despite injuries to key players like Sabally and Jonquel Jones, the Liberty have seen strong contributions from their bench, including Kennedy Burke, Rebekah Gardner, and Isabelle Harrison.

“Everyone knows what she does defensively, so we’re definitely taking a big hit without her here,” starter Sabrina Ionescu noted, “But I think we understand there’s players on this team that are going to be able to kind of plug the holes and fill in while she’s gone.”

The Liberty are focused on maintaining their winning momentum and will welcome Fiebich back with open arms upon her return from EuroBasket.

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