The New York Liberty are poised to welcome back key players Jonquel Jones and Leonie Fiebich for Saturday's game against the Indiana Fever, according to the players themselves. Barring any unforeseen issues, both forwards plan to play, which would bring the Liberty closer to full strength than they have been in over a month.

Jones' availability was in question after she sustained a left ankle tweak during Tuesday's loss in Chicago, forcing her to miss the latter part of the game. She reported feeling "good" on Friday and expects to be ready for the anticipated matchup. "I’m taped up, and of course a little bit of aggravation, but nothing that’s crazy or that’s making me feel like I can’t go," Jones stated.

Fiebich is also anticipated to make her return after being sidelined with a left foot injury since July 3. Her practice workload has increased recently, and she accompanied the team on its trip to Chicago earlier this week. "Obviously, it’s been a while," Fiebich said. "So yeah, I’m just ready. I wanted to play some games ago, but medical staff kept me a little bit. So I’m just very excited to get out there."

While the players expressed confidence in their return, Head Coach Chris DeMarco indicated he would consult with the team’s performance and medical staff to confirm their readiness. The Liberty have only been at full strength for two games this season.

Even with Jones and Fiebich potentially back on the court, New York will still be without Satou Sabally, who stepped away from the team earlier this month due to the lingering effects of her second concussion in eight months. Fiebich expressed sadness for her teammate, noting, "I would have loved to share the court with her for Team Germany. We’re sad for her, especially because she’s just not feeling well. But yeah, I’m looking forward for her to get better, and then for many more games in the future."

Fiebich confirmed to German media that she intends to play in the upcoming FIBA World Cup in Berlin next month. However, she emphasized her immediate focus is on the Liberty. "Obviously, I’m very much of [the mindset to] be where your feet are. Right now, I’m here. I’m gonna play tomorrow, and that’s my focus. Obviously, I know World Cup’s coming up, but that’s for later."

In roster updates, Nigerian forward Elizabeth Balogun joined the Liberty this week on a developmental contract, filling the spot vacated by Marine Fauthoux. DeMarco noted Balogun's 3-and-D skills and expressed confidence in her potential contribution to the team. "She’s a really good player," he said. "And not just for now, like, going forward, we want her to be part of this thing and that’s why she’s here."