In a thrilling showcase of skill and determination, the New York Liberty solidified their prowess on their home turf, pushing through an intense five-game series against the reigning champions, the Las Vegas Aces. The Liberty’s resounding 94-85 triumph at the Barclays Center on Monday night not only etched their mark in history but also moved them closer to seizing the top seed in the WNBA playoffs, currently held by the Las Vegas Aces.
Breanna Stewart, a force to be reckoned with, continued to etch her name in the annals of basketball greatness. With a remarkable performance of 20 points and 12 rebounds, she joined an elite club of Diana Taurasi and Maya Moore as one of the few players in WNBA history to achieve the remarkable feat of amassing at least 800 points in a single season. Stewart’s dominance on the court is exemplified by her 17th double-double of the season, solidifying her as a pivotal player for the Liberty.
Adding to the triumphant narrative, Sabrina Ionescu’s stellar performance with five successful three-pointers contributed to her 25-point display for the game. With this remarkable showing, she stands on the brink of making history in her own right, inching closer to surpassing Diana Taurasi’s record for the most three-pointers in a single season. Such performances showcase the incredible talent that defines the Liberty’s roster.
The Liberty’s success was a collective effort, with Courtney Vandersloot’s double-double performance of 17 points and 10 assists mirroring Stewart’s dominance. The team’s synergy extended to fellow starters Jonquel Jones, who secured 10 rebounds, and Betnijah Laney, who contributed 17 points, ensuring a well-rounded and impactful gameplay.
This victory marks the Liberty’s third triumph over the defending champions, including both encounters held in their own fortress of Barclays Center. The Liberty’s strong showing in the Commissioner’s Cup championship on August 15th bolstered their confidence, setting the stage for their victory against the Aces. Notable performances from Jackie Young and A’ja Wilson, who scored 24 and 23 points respectively, underscored the Aces’ determination in the game.
The journey continues for the Liberty as they remain firmly rooted on their home turf for their upcoming battles. With their sights set on securing one of the top seeds, the Liberty are poised to face the challenge presented by the third-place Connecticut team. As the Liberty’s resilience and skill continue to shine, their captivating journey in the WNBA playoffs unfolds with each exhilarating game.
Join us on Friday night (8 p.m. ET, Ion) as the Liberty go head-to-head with Connecticut, building on the momentum of their miracle overtime victory against Uncasville just days ago. As the excitement builds, the New York Liberty stand poised to leave an indelible mark on the world of women’s basketball.
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