Natasha Howard dominates in return as Liberty fall to Lynx

Natasha Howard didn’t skip a beat in her return to the New York Liberty’s lineup Sunday, scoring a season-high 30 points.

Sabrina Ionescu added 14 points, seven rebounds and six assists for the Liberty.

30PT game from Natasha Howard tonight. Welcome back! ⚡️🗽

Presented by @WithingsEN | #WithingsCommunity pic.twitter.com/t1oe5GmkH0

— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 16, 2021

Howard went down just two games into the WNBA season with an MCL sprain. In her absence, the Liberty have amassed a 10-12 record.

Even with Howard’s return, the Liberty could not overcome the offensive effort of the Minnesota Lynx (12-7), who beat the Liberty 88-78. The combined power of Sylvia Fowles — 20 points, 11 rebounds and three steals — alongside Napheesa Collier — 18 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks — was too much to overcome.

The Lynx have now won eight straight.

The Liberty are back in action Wednesday, August 18 at 7 p.m. ET.