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A string of injuries has shaken up both college and pro basketball as players from the WNBA and NCAA face extended time away from the court. Here’s a look at the latest setbacks impacting major names across the sport.
Breanna Stewart Leaves Liberty Game Early with Leg Injury
New York Liberty forward Breanna Stewart exited just minutes into Saturday night’s 101-99 loss to the Los Angeles Sparks due to a lower leg injury. The 30-year-old All-Star didn’t return after logging just three points and one rebound.
Head coach Sandy Brondello offered no details after the game, only saying, “Hopefully, she’ll be OK.”
Stewart has been leading the Liberty this season in scoring (19.0 ppg), steals (1.5), and blocks (1.4), ranking fifth league-wide in both points and blocks. The two-time MVP has championship wins with both Seattle and New York, including the Liberty’s 2024 title run.
Boogie Fland Recovering from Sports Hernia Surgery
Florida Gators point guard Boogie Fland is out for the summer after undergoing surgery for a sports hernia on July 3. Coach Todd Golden confirmed the procedure, noting Fland is expected back when school resumes.
The former five-star recruit transferred from Arkansas after a freshman year interrupted by thumb surgery. He averaged 13.5 points and 5.1 assists in 21 games.
Fland originally committed to Kentucky before following John Calipari to Arkansas. With Walter Clayton Jr. now in the NBA, Fland is expected to play a big role for the Gators once healthy.
Kayla Thornton Out for Season Following Knee Surgery
Golden State Valkyries forward Kayla Thornton will miss the rest of the season after undergoing knee surgery on Friday. The injury occurred during practice earlier in the week.
Thornton was enjoying a career year, posting personal bests in scoring (14.0 ppg) and rebounding (7.0 rpg) while starting every game for the expansion franchise.
The 32-year-old veteran has played nearly 300 games across multiple WNBA teams and was part of the Liberty’s 2024 championship roster.
