Johnkell Jones made a successful comeback for the New York Liberty on Tuesday night after missing nine consecutive games due to a right ankle injury sustained on June 19. Returning against the Indiana Fever, who played without Kate Rinklerk, Jones led the Liberty to a 98-84 victory, topping the team in points and rebounds.
Jones started strong with a catch-and-shoot three-pointer in the first minute but struggled in the first half, shooting just 7-1 from the floor, showing some rust from the long absence. Despite this, the Liberty, missing Clark, maintained a 46-42 lead into the later stages of the game and held a 67-60 advantage late in the third quarter.
Jones regained her rhythm as New York’s defense held Indiana scoreless for 4 minutes and 50 seconds, helping the Liberty take control. Indiana last scored at 2:24 with 67-60 before New York closed the quarter with a 9-0 run, leading 69-67. The Liberty then extended their lead with a 13-0 run in the fourth quarter while Indiana’s drought ended only with a free throw from Natasha Howard. Jones sank multiple three-pointers, ending the game with 18 points and nine rebounds, shooting five of 13.
Her strong performance overshadowed a 29-point effort by Indiana’s Kelsey Mitchell. Jones’ return is especially good news for the Liberty, who recently signed All-Star Emma Meesseman, the 2019 WNBA Finals MVP and three-time Euroleague MVP, though her debut date is still unknown. Meesseman’s addition alongside stars Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart strengthens New York’s championship potential. With the win, the Liberty improved to a 16-6 record, solidifying their lead in the Eastern Conference.
Fan Take: Johnkell Jones’ return marks a crucial boost for the Liberty, signaling that the team is hitting its stride just as new talent like Emma Meesseman prepares to join the roster. For WNBA fans, this resurgence highlights an exciting, competitive season ahead with New York poised as a strong championship contender.
