Stewart Out of Finale, Playoff Status Uncertain

New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart was ruled out of Wednesday’s regular-season finale against the Atlanta Dream because of left-knee soreness after appearing to tweak the knee in Monday’s 95-84 loss to Atlanta. Coach Chris DeMarco called the decision precautionary but could not confirm whether Stewart would be available or fully fit when the playoffs begin Sunday. The loss eliminated New York’s chance to host a first-round playoff series, while Wednesday’s result and other games would determine whether the Liberty finished as high as sixth or remained in eighth, potentially facing the Minnesota Lynx. Stewart, New York’s leading scorer and a recent FIBA World Cup MVP, had 27 points and 14 rebounds in Monday’s defeat despite the apparent injury.