Thu Sep 18 04:00:00 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and news article based on the provided text:

**Summary:**

Despite a left knee MCL sprain suffered in Game 1, Liberty star Breanna Stewart started Game 2 against the Mercury. She played 20 minutes, scoring only six points, and the Liberty were soundly defeated, 86-60. The series is now tied 1-1 and will be decided in Phoenix in Game 3. Stewart stated she would play as much as she could, depending on pain tolerance, after an MRI revealed no structural damage.

**News Article:**

**Stewart Plays Through Injury, But Liberty Fall to Mercury in Game 2 Rout**

BROOKLYN, NY – Breanna Stewart, sporting a knee brace, powered through a left knee MCL sprain to start in Game 2 of the New York Liberty’s first-round WNBA playoff series against the Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday night. However, her efforts weren’t enough as the Liberty suffered a crushing 86-60 defeat, sending the series to a decisive Game 3 in Phoenix.

Stewart, who injured her knee in the closing minutes of Game 1, played 20 minutes and scored just six points. The two-time WNBA MVP expressed relief after an MRI revealed no structural damage, stating she planned to play through the pain. “They told me that structurally, everything looks OK… So, my plan is to go,” Stewart said before the game.

Despite Stewart’s presence on the court, the Liberty struggled to contain the Mercury, who dominated from start to finish. Stewart had crumpled to the floor in Game 1, grabbing her knee, a moment she described as “scary.”

With the series now tied at 1-1, the Liberty will face a tough challenge in Phoenix to keep their playoff hopes alive. The deciding Game 3 is scheduled for Friday night. The Liberty will need a much stronger performance from their supporting cast to complement Stewart, who leads the team in scoring, blocks, and steals.

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