Leonie Fiebich returned to the court after a seven-week absence due to a left foot injury, playing a crucial role in the New York Liberty's 109-102 victory over the Indiana Fever on Saturday. Fiebich, typically reserved on the court, showed rare on-court emotion after converting an and-1 layup that extended the Liberty's lead to 81-72. "I just had some, it’s just a natural reaction. Really happy that it was going well for us, I feel like we needed a little bit of energy to just lay it out," Fiebich said following the game.
Fiebich, who had not played since July 3, admitted to experiencing frustration over the past week, feeling capable of playing but being held out by the team's performance staff. Her presence was immediately felt, serving as a vital link on both offense and defense. "I knew that I wanted to have an impact defensively, because that’s what we need and just help the team in whatever way," she stated.
She contributed to 32 of the team's points through scoring or assists and limited Caitlin Clark to 2-of-7 shooting when Fiebich was the primary defender. Fiebich finished the game with 20 points, five rebounds, and five assists. "It sucks to not be on the court, to have to watch. It was good to actually be on the court and help the team. That’s all I want to do. So I was really happy that I could do that today," Fiebich added.
Despite allowing 102 points to the Fever, the league's top offense, the Liberty considered it one of their stronger defensive performances of the season. Fiebich's return bolstered these efforts, contributing to a more synchronized defensive unit. "We were all really locked into it today," said teammate Rebecca Allen. "That connected piece is huge for us and it’s something we really need to maintain."
Liberty star Breanna Stewart expressed confidence in the team's defensive capabilities. "I knew what our defense could be like. I’m just excited to continue to build. Better late than never, I guess. But now it’s just really important how we finish this season," Stewart commented.