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In an inevitable, much anticipated WNBA Finals between the Las Vegas Aces and the New York Liberty, there are several key players to keep an eye on. What makes this series so exciting and unique is the level of talent on both rosters. In the finals, we will see three current and former MVPs, Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and A'ja Wilson. Out of those players, both Stewart and Wilson are 2x WNBA Most Valuable Players.
With the Aces headed back to their second consecutive Finals, this matchup will include two finals MVPs, Breanna Stewart (Seattle) and Chelsea Gray. Four of the Aces starters were selected as All-Stars, A'ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, Chelsea Gray, and Jackie Young. For the Liberty, each of their five starters have been named an All-Star in their career, including Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, Betnijah Laney, Courtney Vandersloot, and Sabrina Ionescu.
After rewriting the NCAA record books, Kelsey Plum was drafted No. 1 in the 2017 WNBA draft.
— SLAM (@SLAMonline) April 14, 2017
First-round resultshttps://t.co/FfcxEPXa9Q pic.twitter.com/ATIYWYwU18
Between these accomplished teams, the Liberty starting five and Aces core four have a combined 32 All-Star appearances. Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart join A'ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young as former first overall draft picks. In fact, Kelsey Plum was selected first overall by the San Antionio Stars in 2017. In 2018, the Stars moved to Las Vegas and became the Aces.
Liberty Key Players
Betnijah Laney was a force in the Semi-Finals
— WNBA (@WNBA) October 1, 2023
Game 2: 20 PTS, 4 REB, 3 AST
Game 3: 20 PTS, 8 REB, 4 AST
Game 4: 21 PTS, 7 REB, 5 AST@EmJ_not23 pic.twitter.com/XJqNTZOrEd
There are two key players for the New York Liberty in this series, Betnijah Laney and Jonquel Jones. The New York Liberty defense will also be essential.
A member of the Liberty since 2021, Laney has embraced her role around several stars. As the season progressed, so did her play and grit. Known for her defensive prowess, Laney was named to the All-Defensive second team. Becoming a confident scorer over time, Laney is usually tasked with guarding the best player on the court. A defensive juggernaut in the series against the Aces, Laney averaged 12.5 points, 5.3 rebounds, and 2.8 assists.
In four games, the forward shot 50 percent from the field, and 41.2 percent from the three. Laney, who was held to three points in Game one versus Connecticut, proved her value in the next three games. In six postseason games, No. 44 is averaging 15 points, 5.2 rebounds, and three assists. She's shooting a remarkable 48.2 percent from the floor, and 43 percent from long range. Though the box score often doesn't reflect the entire story, Laney will be the ultimate x factor on both sides of the ball. The Aces have a powerful guard trio, in addition to A'ja Wilson. Betnijah will be one of the players, aside from Breanna Stewart and Jones to step up on the defensive end.
Jonquel Jones is a double-double machine
New year, same result
— espnW (@espnW) October 1, 2023
Jonquel Jones dropped 25 points in the win to eliminate her former teampic.twitter.com/Qou9EQeU45
Jonquel Jones is a former MVP for a reason. Traded to the Liberty this offseason, No. 35 found her stride, specifically after the All-Star break. Named Commissioners Cup MVP, Jones was a vital part of New York's game two win against Washington. When the Liberty couldn't hit their shots, the offense flowed through Jones. Jones grabbed a critical rebound, and hit two free throws, saving the Liberty.
Using her size and strength, the forward was able to score inside the paint, as well as run the pick and roll with Stewart. Post All-Star break, Jones averaged 12.2 points, and 10.3 rebounds, on 52 percent field goal shooting. In six postseason games, Jones is averaging 16.5 points, 12.7 rebounds, and 2.2 blocks. She set WNBA history with six consecutive double doubles. Jones leads the entire playoffs in total rebounds.
It will be crucial for Jones to stay out of foul trouble. While only averaging 9.3 points against the Aces, No. 35 totaled close to ten boards per game. Look for the Kiah Stokes matchup with Jones, as she is a defensive presence for the Aces. If the Aces limit the Liberty in perimeter scoring, the offense must flow through Jones.
Liberty Defense
The New York Liberty played zone defense this postseason over 40 times, compared to 88 in the regular season. New York ranked third in defensive rating this season, and limited opponents to 80 points per game. With the Aces running a six-player rotation, Kayla Thornton will be pivotal for New York's defense. Don't let the box score fool you, Thronton is a 3&D guard, who can also shoot the ball.
Aces Key Players
We still think about this @cgray209 pass.
— Las Vegas Aces (@LVAces) October 4, 2023
pic.twitter.com/1m3UqKzCBc
As much as I want to say this will be the battle between Stewart and Wilson, Kiah Stokes, Alysha Clark, and will be key for the Aces. In four matchups, both Breanna Stewart and A'ja Wilson were held to under 20 points per game. With a six-player rotation, Clark will be key off the bench, especially on the defensive end against Stewart. If the guards are struggling on the perimeter, look for Clark to be open on the corner, especially if New York decides to switch to a zone defense.
In five playoff matchups, Clark is averaging 8 points, and 4 rebounds. No. 7 is shooting over 40 percent from deep, and 53.6 percent from the field. Despite Parker out with injuries, Stokes has been a defensive presence, although hesitant to shoot at times. Stokes will have the primary responsibility of guarding Jonquel Jones. The center has averaged 8.6 rebounds and nearly 1.5 steals in five playoff games.
Stewart started to show signs of life in game four against Connecticut. She's struggled primarily on the offensive end in the postseason, which shows how deeply talented New York is. Stewart shot 22 percent from the three-point against the Aces and averaged 18 points in four games. Even worse, No. 30 averaged 35.6 percent from the floor.
Chelsea Gray was the 2022 Finals MVP for a reason. In four games against New York, Gray averaged 16.8 points, 5.8 rebounds, 8 assists, and 1.8 steals. It will be crucial for Gray to distribute the ball and make plays for her teammates. Shooting over 60 percent in last year's playoffs, look for the guard to find those notorious mid-range jumpers.
A'ja Wilson vs. Breanna Stewart
ACES. LIBERTY.
— SportsCenter (@SportsCenter) October 1, 2023
THE WNBA FINALS ARE SETpic.twitter.com/qJoFdeS5XX
There's no question all eyes will be on and Breanna Stewart. Stewart edged out Wilson and Alyssa Thomas for MVP, while Wilson was named defensive player of the year. Regardless of Stewarts struggles in the postseason, she's the best player in the world, along with A'ja Wilson. Both players underperformed in four regular season meetings. Stewart averaged 18 points, 9 rebounds, 3 steals and 2.5 blocks. Limited to 22 percent three-point shooting, No. 30 saw a significant decrease in her production on the road in Vegas. In two matchups on the road, the MVP averaged only 14 points a game, and 6.4 rebounds on 30 percent shooting. While Stewart didn't have the best outings against Vegas, she thrives in big moments. In the regular season, Stewart was second in points, fourth in blocks, and third in rebounds. When she struggles on offense, Stewart capitalizes on the defensive end.
A'ja Wilson had a historic season, along with Breanna Stewart. The 2023 Defensive Player of the Year averaged 17.3 points, 6.4 rebounds, and 1.8 blocks against the Liberty this season. Her three consecutive 30-point games are the most in playoff history and had the most points through four playoff games. With Wilson held to 4-24, including the Commissioners Cup, look for her and Stewart to battle all series long.
Keys for the Liberty
Rebounding and inside scoring will be key for the Liberty this series. They are second in the playoffs in rebounding percentage, and second chance points. In four meetings, excluding the Commissioners Cup, New York outrebounded by only 8 boards, and dominated on the defensive boards. In games two and four, New York did an excellent job of controlling the rebounds, and well as scoring in the paint. This postseason, the Liberty average 38.3 points in the paint, and will face the top defense in the league, the Aces.
While Las Vegas are at the top defensively, New York led all teams in the regular season in assists per game. Loaded with talent, this Liberty team has excellent ball movement, and improved their shot selections. With Courtney Vandersloot as the floor general, fluid movement and looks will be key.
The Aces are elite when it comes to guarding the perimeter, and Liberty guard Sabrina Ionescu thrives in the spotlight. Over four games, Ionescu shot 52.9 percent from three, and 52.6 percent from the field. With strong screens, No. 20 will pull, even with the slightest amount of room.
Overall, the Liberty thrive on momentum and confidence. Slowing down A'ja Wilson is necessary, and it will be essential to disrupt the flow of offense. It will be important to establish a lead early, and force the Aces to scramble, even on their home court.
Keys for the Aces
Much like the Liberty, rebounds and paint presence will be imperative in all games. In their two victories against the Liberty, they controlled the paint. The Aces play at a faster pace than the Liberty, and controlling the tempo will be extremely important. With rumors swirling Candace Parker was at practice, the Aces could have a bolster to their front court.
With Becky Hammon utlizing a six player rotation, the Aces are in shape, and used to playing a high number of minutes. In their third finals appearance, the Aces need to utilize their home court advantage, a place where they only lost one in the regular season.
There's one area the Aces dominate it, and that's experience as a team. The New York Liberty are headed into the finals with three new additions in their starting lineup. For the Aces, they need to take advantage of their already established presence and chemistry together.
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at Ballislife, and a Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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"What we did in the [pre] season doesn't matter," Sabrina Ionescu told reporters. "Now it's zero-zero, and we have to make sure that, you know, we take that into consideration-- It's anyone's game and we have to go out there and take it, it's not going to be handed to us." "We know how Connecticut is going to play, and obviously they're going to take it to another level, and so we have to as well," Ionescu told reporters pregame.
New York Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello described game one as the "worst game of the season." "We [The Liberty] will be better next game. I'm 100 percent sure of that. We've got great players, and we will have to respond in the right way. It's a great challenge for us," Brondello told the media post-game.
Despite sweeping the Sun, the Liberty were held to a season low 63 points, on 33.8 percent field goal and 29.6 three-point percentage. Contrary to their dominant performance in the paint against the Washington Mystics, they were outrebounded by the Sun 35-30, and were held to 22 points in the paint. With the presence on of Jonquel Jones, the Liberty were held to just four points down low in the second half.
Rebecca Allen impresses against her former team
A signature @becallen8 reverse lay to get us going.#CTSun | #ForgedByFire
— Connecticut Sun (@ConnecticutSun) September 24, 2023pic.twitter.com/mLDElHoPDZ
After a 25-21 first quarter lead, the Liberty commanded a 40-37 halftime edge over the Sun. Despite keeping the score adjacent, New York fell completely fell apart in the second half. It was at this time where the Connecticut Sun "took their game to another level." Despite losing Jonquel Jones in the offseason, and Brionna Jones to injury, Connecticut found a way to break through the Liberty. Rebecca Allen, in her first WNBA semifinals, had her best playoff game of her career, with 18 points, two blocks, two steals, seven rebounds. The former Liberty forward shot 77.8 percent from the field, and 66.7 percent from the three-point line. The Sun, with who had a top defense all year, certainly did not disappoint in game one.
The Sun set the tone after their 11-3 run in the first quarter, led by Rebecca Allen. In the offseason, Allen, along with the 2023 No. 6 pick were acquired by the Connecticut Sun in the Jonquel Jones trade. In the acquisition, Kayla Thornton was shipped to New York, and Tyasha Harris to Connecticut. Poised with confidence, Allen set the tone with a reverse layup over Sabrina Ionescu. She later pulled a contested 26 three-point jumper over Breanna Stewart, with the help of Alyssa Thomas's screen.
With 6:44 left to go in the first quarter, it was clear the Connecticut Sun were prepared for this moment. With Allen on Sabrina, her steal turned into bold faced three-pointer in the hand of Ionescu. Feeling her stride, No. 9 pulled a contested three-pointer in front of Marine Johannès during the third quarter.
Rebecca Allen is ON ONE
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 24, 2023@becallen8 has started off the 1Q with 8 PTS (3-3, 2-2 from 3)
ESPN | 2023 #WNBAPlayoffs | @google pic.twitter.com/b2mi2AJPJZ
The Connecticut Sun have trust in their entire team
Despite a 10-2 run by the New York Liberty in the second, the Connecticut Sun outscored the New York Liberty 28-15 in the third quarter. They shot an incredible 44 percent from the three and held the Liberty to 33 percent field goal shooting. The creating of mismatches, especially with Bonner and Vandersloot down below, opened up three-point opportunities for the Sun.
The Sun, led by head coach Stephanie White, utilized other players besides Thomas, who scored zero points in the third. Prior to getting into foul trouble, Tiffany Hayes finished with six points, along with Allen and Hiedeman. Connecticut, a team that often relies too heavily on DeWanna Bonner and Alyssa Thomas, turned to their starters and role players for production. Ultimately, this matchup game down to confidence, the Sun were able to hit tough shots as a team.
The backcourt tandem between Tiffany Hayes and Natisha Hiedeman combined for 24 points, six assists, and nine rebounds. Between Hayes, Heideman and Allen, all three players set the tone for Connecticut to thrive down the stretch. All five Connecticut Sun starters finished positive on the court, contrary to their last matchup against New York.
.@NatishaHiedeman knocks down ANOTHER triple
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 24, 2023
The @connecticutsun are on a 11-2 run over the last 2:37
The Sun had a colossal third quarter
It's clear the Connecticut Sun capitalized on their defensive stops. Allen continued her dominant three point shooting this quarter, along with Hiedeman in the corner over Ionescu. From there, Connecticut went on a 12-3 run. The defensive pressure from White's squad forced New York to turn the ball over four times in this quarter, and 14 as a team. As a result, the Sun capitalized with 7 fast break points, and held New York to zero throughout the entire matchup.
DEWANNA
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 24, 2023BONNER
With that bucket, DeWanna Bonner passes Taj McWilliams-Franklin for 3rd on the Sun All-Time Playoffs points list with 383
"We came out really slow in the first quarter and then the third quarter. It's been happening in the last few games, and I think it's mindset. Frustration sets in, we don't execute, and we all know we are better than that," said coach Brondello.
New York cut the deficit to five points, followed by Kayla Thorntons three-pointer. Even with the slightest momentum, the Liberty couldn't get stops on defense. With DeWanna Bonner doubled by Vandersloot and Thornton, Rebecca Allen was ready to strike beyond distance again, this time in the corner over Jonquel Jones. Alyssa Thomas the point forward position, was able to find teammates in the low post with back door cuts. With one second remaining in the third, Bonner hit a buzzer beating mid-range shot over Breanna Stewart. From there on out, the Sun remained poised with confidence and determination. Bonner finished the game with 20 points, three blocks, one steal, and seven rebounds.
The Liberty couldn't find their stride on offense
Throughout the month of August, the Liberty ranked first in both offensive rating and net rating. Multiple Liberty players have stated the playoffs are a different time, and this matchup proved just that. Jonquel Jones finished with 14 points and 11 rebounds, and two blocks. With New York scoring 18 points in the paint first half, the Connecticut Sun were able to adjust to that defensively. With ten first half points, the Sun limited Jones to four second half of the game. Though the Liberty defeated the Mystics with paint presence, the Sun figured out a way to negate that.
Even with Jones's strength and size, you could visibly see multiple orange jerseys that surrounded her the second half the game.
New York is confident they will play better
The Liberty offense overall looked stale and out of rhythm. Though Breanna Stewart finished with a team high 19 points and six rebounds, Stewart shot 7-25, and 0-8 from the three. With the perimeter heavily guarded, Connecticut forced New York to take unwanted shots. Betnijah Laney, an incredible x-factor in their starting lineup, finished with just three points on 1-9 shooting. Laney saw some looks in the paint and couldn't finish in several of them. In the fourth quarter, the Liberty struggled to score on turnovers, especially with Hiedeman's block over Breanna Stewart with eight minutes to go.
"That's what makes it tough is her [Alyssa Thomas] ability to guard multiple positions, and you know, they knew where I was all night. Credit to them, but we'll be back," said Stewart post-game.
.@NatishaHiedeman with the BIG TIME REJECTION
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 24, 2023
The @connecticutsun lead by 15 in the 4Q on @ESPN
2023 #WNBAPlayoffs | @google pic.twitter.com/R2TtRKCYLd
With Ty Harris sent to the Suns bench with five personal fouls, New York still couldn't take advantage. Ionescu, who finished with 12 points, was 4-14 from the field, and was guarded heavily with her every move.
Breanna Stewart expresses frustration
"They were being aggressive, you know, blowing things up for us, but I don't think we handled it well," Stewart told the press. " We didn't stay poised or composed. We had the ability to the second and third side, and we just didn't do that today. So, it's a little bit frustrating to drop this one at home."
Their offensive seemed uncharacteristic, as they shot just 13.6 percent, and 10 percent from the three in the final quarter. New York was held to just eight points in the final ten minutes. This game was a struggle, not just by Stewart, but along with the entire team.
After a sloppy game one, the New York Liberty (0-1, 0-1 Home) will matchup against the Connecticut Sun (1-0, 1-0 Away) for game two of the WNBA semifinals. With one more home matchup, the two teams will play on Tuesday, at the Barclays Center.
Stay tuned for more WNBA related articles. Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, and a Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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Prior to Tuesday's matchup, Washington Mystics guard Natasha Cloud knew this was a must win for the Mystics. Prior to game three, Cloud stated, "she will be guarding Sabrina Ionescu for 40 minutes," and the Mystics defense was "lazy." Throughout one of the most intense games of the year, Natasha Cloud backed up her talk with a career night, and the Liberty remained poised throughout a chaotic second half. Cloud finished with 33 points, four steals, and nine rebounds, on 5-7 three-point shooting. Sabrina Ionescu added 11 points, two steals, five assists, and nine rebounds, on 4-11 shot attempts.
Prior to the matchup, both Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart spoke to the media about the critical matchup. It's apparent the two players knew this game wasn't going to be an easy task. When asked what it will take to close out this series, Stewart calmly stated:
"To keep our emotions in check. Know that D.C. [Washington Mystics] is obviously going to be literally fighting for their season tonight, and know that if we can control the pace, control the boards, really play how we want to defensively, everything will open up offensively," said Stewart. In this case, Stewart was 100 percent right. The Mystics fought for their season until the final seconds of overtime. Through the fourth quarter, both teams were tied four times, and there were five lead changes in ten minutes.
In 38 minutes, the New York Liberty were able to keep Mystics star Elena Delle Donne in check. In 38 minutes, the forward had 11 points, and was held to 4-16 shooting. Delle Donne, battling injuries all season, averaged 16.7 points in the regular season, and was held to zero percent three-point shooting in game three. "Yeah, just having an attention to her, making sure we know where she is on the court, pick and roll coverages, me and Stewie [Breanna Stewart]," Jonquel told the press.
Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones took charge
No. 30 is a true professional, and keeping their emotions in check was more vital than ever. Not her best shooting performance, Breanna Stewart finished with a team high 27 points, nine rebounds, three blocks, two assists, and two steals. Up by one point, with 1:13 remaining in the fourth quarter, Stewart had the two biggest plays of the game, next to Jonquel Jones. No. 30 got up for a block, and with 45 seconds to go, the forward drilled an 11-foot turnaround shot. Her big time shot put the Liberty up 74-71, until Brittney Sykes responded with a 24 foot three-point jump shot.
Shortly after Stewart made the 11-foot jumper to extend the lead to three, Jonquel Jones had a momentous block on Natasha Cloud's driving layup attempt. It was then, Jones turned the ball over, and racked up her fourth personal foul of the game, sending Cloud to the free-throw line. Tied 74 all, Cloud made both free-throws, despite the electric crowd at the Barclays. With 27.3 seconds remaining, Sandy Brondello formulated a plan of attack, around both players. Given New York finished 4-23 from the three-point line, and 0-7 in the third quarter, the game plan was to attack inside. After a missed driving layup by Breanna Stewart, Natasha Cloud fouled, which sent Sabrina Ionescu to the line in the bonus.
"Like I said, you sometimes, you have to find a way, what's the best way the win. They are [Stewart and Jones] the easy ones at the rim, and JJ did a few reps from high, you know a little iso at the top, that's all JJ," coach Brondello told the media post-game. Jones finished with six points in the third, and Stewart with six in overtime. New York bullied Washington in the paint, 52-42, and monopolized on the rebounds, 41-38. Out of the six shots taken in the paint during the final quarter, Jones and Stewart accounted for four of them.
Jonquel Jones is a former MVP for a reason. Down 76-74, No. 35 grabbed an essential rebound, after Ionescu missed both free throws. From there, Jones was sent to the line, after being fouled by Myisha Hines-Allen. With 11.4 seconds to go, Jones made two necessary rebounds, which tied the game. With the season on the line, Washington had a chance to win the game. Due to miscommunication, Cloud overthrew the ball to Sykes on the inbound. The fans went into frenzy, and the ballgame went into overtime at the Barclays.
"I had to redeem myself after turning the ball over," Jones said after the victory. "Honestly, there was no other option but to make the free throws. Just going into my free-throw routine, just saying what I normally say to myself when I shoot free-throws." Laughing it off, Jones stated "I say one, two, spin, bend, shoot, every time."
"The free throw, the free throw rebound from JJ-- that was a missed shot we knew we had to miss to get that, and her to knock down two really big shots, that was big for us, " said Brondello after the game.
The New York Liberty and Washington Mystics meet again in overtime
Multiple players of the New York liberty have insisted that the Washington Mystics play much better than a No. 7 seed. With the regular season series split 2-2, the Mystics defeated the Liberty 90-88 in the final matchup of the season, thanks to Brittney Sykes buzzer beater. Tied 76-76, Washington had five minutes in overtime to keep their season alive. With a champion winning coach, the Liberty were able to adjust to their opponent's defense, which ultimately secured the victory.
Natasha Cloud wasn't playing around when she said she would play a full 40 minutes on Sabrina Ionescu. In sudden death overtime, both teams battled, and the score remained close up until the four second mark. Guards Courtney Vandersloot and Sabrina Ionescu were bottled up a majority of the night, which forced Brondello to put the ball in the hands of Breanna Stewart.
"Because the guards, I mean they just made Sloot [Vandersloot] and Sabrina [Ionescu]---it was a tough night, so we just put the ball back in Stewies [Stewart] hands, " Brondello told the press after the win.
JJ put on a SHOW at @barclayscenter
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) September 20, 2023
Jonquel Jones was able to dominate in the paint the entire night, especially with the mismatch on Hines-Allen. Given the perimeter was locked up, Stewart was able to bring Delle Donne out of the paint, and Jonquel Jones was able to iso her way to the basket. With her six-foot six frame, Jones had the size and strength to attack Washington's weakness, which was defense in the high and low post. Through four quarters and overtime, the Liberty had 23 made shots in the paint, which was uncharacteristic for New York, who led the league in three-point percentage. New York was able to show how impactful this team can be. They are very much as much of a threat outside, as they are inside.
REAL SIMPLE. @jus242 pic.twitter.com/J1TdiIO8cj
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) September 19, 2023
Several plays were run with Stewart running the point, with both her and Jones at the top of the key. With Stewart as the primary ball handler, strong screens made by Jonquel Jones, opened up opportunities and back door cuts for her teammates. Four of Courtney Vandersloot's eight points erupted in overtime, which included a vital back door cut, and 20-foot jumper. with 18 seconds remaining, Jonquel Jones redeemed herself with a steal, after turning the ball over. Breanna Stewart's six made free-throws led the Liberty to a 90-85 overtime victory over the Mystics.
Betnijah Laney is the definition of New York "grit"
With the abundance of talent on this New York roster, there's Betnijah Laney. Proven a true x-factor on both sides of the ball, Laney has established herself as a tough, physical player, that gives her all, night in and night out, regardless of the matchup. In two post season matchups against Washington, No. 44 averaged 19 points, five rebounds, and two assists. In Tuesday's victory, the forward finished with 19 points, one steal, three assists, and two rebounds. She hit a pivotal three point shot with 2:18 to go in the fourth, to keep the Liberty alive.
What the box score often doesn't indicate is her tough defensive matchups against star players. Laney was often matched with Natasha Cloud, who had a career night with 33 points. At times, she had to guard the mismatch on Delle Donne. Passing up the three-point shot, Laney had several drives to the basket, showing full physicality and toughness. Her acrobatic back door reverse lay ins have become a staple of her game, and really emphasize her multidimensional game play.
Bucket B was in full effect tonight
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) September 20, 2023
The turning point in the matchup started with Betnijah Laney. Knowing the perimeter was heavily guarded by Ariel Atkins, No. 44 furiously barged into the paint, and knocked down a nine-foot fadeaway shot on Atkins. With zero hesitation, Laney set the tone again in the first quarter, and played forcefully until the end of regulation. When Ionescu, or other players are locked up, look for Laney to always play a factor.
"Doing what we need to do and in the right way. If someone's having a tough night, we always say, how can you still impact the game," Brondello said following the win. With Sabrina Ionescu held the 11 points, the guard was impactful in several key areas, including the rebounds. Ionescu had two steals, nine rebounds, and five assists. With Vandersloot guarded heavily, she finished with ten assists.
Coach Brondello discussed those final plays, and her decision to keep the ball away from Courtney Vandersloot and Sabrina Ionescu. "It's not all about scoring, in some times with Sabrina, it was more like just keep her off the ball. In the end, don't even come near the ball, you're [Ionescu] a decoy right now, and sloot [ Vandersloot]. "
"I thought B [Betnijah Laney], JJ [Jonquel Jones] and Stewie [Breanna Stewart] really just stayed composed and they made really big shots-- great players making great plays," said Brondello. "Hats off to Washington. They've had a tough year with all [of] their injuries. This is a three seed in my opinion, you know, the way that they competed tonight, when's the last time you've seen someone play that hard?"
Post game, Breanna Stewart said the game definitely "got spicy." Along with a physical matchup, the Liberty had several shooting woes and costly turnovers. Overall, New York shot 17.4 percent from the three-point, and 42 percent from the field. Not always pretty, they found a way to sweep the Washington Mystics. With the original story line focused on Cloud and Ionescu, we can't forget Cloud's unbelievable performance. However, New York proves they can win in multiple ways.
The New York Liberty will face the Connecticut Sun in the WNBA Playoffs Semifinals. The best of five games, the Liberty will have home court advantage for the first two games. New York will play Connecticut on Sept. 24 at 1 p.m. ET, at the Barclays Center.
Stay tuned for more WNBA related articles. Click here
Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, and a Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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]]>New York Liberty General Manager Jonathan Kolb set his sights on building a championship contending team when hired. This offseason, Kolb performed several crucial transactions, including the free agency signings of Breanna Stewart and Courtney Vandersloot. In January, New York acquired former MVP Jonquel Jones and defensive player Kayla Thornton, in a three-team deal between the Dallas Wings and the Connecticut Sun. Already deemed executive of the year prior to the start of the season by Liberty fans, Kolb has solidified and assembled one of the most elite teams in the WNBA this season. Kolb is the first Liberty GM to win the award for the top WNBA basketball executive.
Congratulations to Jonathan Kolb of the @nyliberty for being named the 2023 WNBA Basketball Executive of the Year pic.twitter.com/SI0CuIoEKv
— WNBA (@WNBA) September 14, 2023
The Liberty finish with the best record in franchise history
After two back-to-back- first round playoff exits, and a 16-20 finish in 2022, the New York Liberty far exceeded expectations this year. Through 40 games, New York finished a franchise best 32-8, and captured the No. 2 seed in the WNBA. After acquiring three All-Stars, Kolb edged out Gregg Bibb, President of the Dallas Wings, with 20 points. Compiling a lineup of two former MVPs, New York finished with a league leading 18-4 record post All-Star break. The Liberty, led by head coach Sandy Brondello, finished first in several offensive categories post All-Star break.
“I am profoundly humbled to be named this year’s WNBA Basketball Executive of the Year by my esteemed peers, a group for whom I hold the deepest respect,” said Kolb per press release. “This accolade, at its core, is a testament to the synergy of our team – from Clara and our ownership group’s unwavering trust, to lockstep partnership with Keia and our business team, the brilliance and unity our players exhibit on the court, the meticulous dedication of Sandy and our coaching staff, the strategy sessions with my confidant Ohemaa and our front office, and the ceaseless care factor from our performance staff and entire team.”
Off season frontcourt improvements
With the off-season acquisitions, New York bolstered its front court depth, with the addition of Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones. The Liberty were extremely efficient on the boards, finishing second overall in rebounding percentage. Between Jones and Stewart, the duo totaled a combined 34.3 points and 17.7 rebounds per game. In 2022, New York wasn't as productive on the boards, averaging only 34 a game. From 2022, New York's rebounding percentage is up by 3.8 percent.
Kolb adds a pure playmaker
The addition of Courtney Vandersloot was a brilliant move by Kolb. The 5x WNBA All-Star and WNBA champion, brought structure and strength to the backcourt, which already included Sabrina Ionescu, along with Betnijah Laney. Vandersloot, a pure floor general, excels in driving to the lane, finding backdoor cuts, and reading screens. New York broke several historical records, including the all-time WNBA record for team assist percentage.
“Serving as the General Manager for the New York?Liberty?has been a dream realized for me, and I bear the weight of this role with immense responsibility and gratitude. Witnessing our fans rally behind this team has been incredible, and I cannot wait to see where this journey takes us," said Kolb in a press release.
Prior to their Game 1 playoff matchup between the Washington Mystics, Jonathan Kolb spoke to the media on New York Sports, and his take on winning the award.
"We play for a professional sports in New York right? We're a team in New York and that's who we are and that's what we do." Kolb told reporters. "They're talking about the best teams in New York, everyone let them have it [on X] which was cool. That was something we're seeing change. I think when we had the press conference in February announcing [Sloot] and [Stewart], we want this to be mainstream. Credit to the players and the coaches, because they put together something really special on the floor, that now New Yorkers are starting to realize."
New York Liberty GM Jonathan Kolb pre game pic.twitter.com/oMdWFt41Fb
— Sara Jane Gamelli (@SaraJGamelli) September 15, 2023
Kolb is extremely humble
"I don't like this attention. I'd be disrespecting the award if I didn't embrace it, because it is a team award," said Kolb. "[The award] has to all manifest itself in the court in a real winning way. I can tell you, this place is special. The people we have here is special. [Clara Wu Tsai, Joe Tsai, Oliver Weisberg] it starts with them. And then the people that we have here, there are no egos. I couldn't be more humbled, and happy, and just energized everyday to work with the people that I get to work with."
In the pre game press conference, Head Coach Sandy Brondello had some warm words about the GM on Friday night. "I'm really, really happy for Jonathan," Brondello told the media. "He's been here for a long time-- building up the Westchester days, to where we are today, he deserves a lot of the credit to build the organization where players want to come here. He has a great vision. [Jonathan Kolb] is one of the smartest guys I know. He knows the CBA better than anyone I've ever spoke to, and just how to manage a salary cap."
He has success planned for the future
Highlighted as the first GM in WNBA history to acquire three All-Stars from the previous season, New York has performed in every way Kolb has envisioned. In his tenure, the GM secured key players, extending Sabrina Ionescu, Kayla Thornton, and Betnijah Laney to multi-year contracts. Jonathan Kolb truly cares about Liberty basketball, the fans, and has built a team from the ground up. Not easy at times, with hard work, and dedication, this Liberty team has the talent and drive to be WNBA champion contenders.
The New York Liberty will face the Washington Mystics in round 1 of the WNBA playoffs. Game 2 will take place on Sept. 19, at the Barclays Center.
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Sara Jane Gamelli is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch and TikTok. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics, with a minor in business administration.
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(Brandon Todd/New York Liberty)
On Friday night, the New York Liberty matched up with the Connecticut Sun for the fourth and final time. With a 3-0 lead, Liberty Head Coach Sandy Brondello anticipated a highly competitive matchup, similarly to their 95-90 overtime win against the Sun in game 3. This was especially since Liberty star Sabrina Ionescu was ruled out ahead of the event.
"They're a great team. They had a lot of players returning. I think they've grown so much throughout the year, just like we all have," said Brondello. "They've always been tough on defense and very disruptive. I think the way they play, they're sharing the ball. [Alyssa Thomas] at the point forward position certainly helps them. We know they're going to be motivated, we want to keep our good rhythm going into the playoffs," Brondello told the media prior to the game.
Coach Brondello had the right mindset heading into this game in terms of the opposition. However, Fridays' matchup between the Connecticut Sun and New York Liberty couldn't have gone worse for Connecticut. For New York, star forward Breanna Stewart had 8 points by the end of the first quarter. With the absence of Brionna Jones for the Suns, Stewart took advantage of the mismatches, especially against Tiffany Hayes. Prior to the game, former MVP Jonquel Jones elaborated on the matchup against her former team, and their plan of attack.
The Liberty stellar defense shines
"Obviously Connecticut had a big loss with [Brionna Jones] going down, and I think they're a little bit smaller inside," Jones told reporters. Because of that, It's given us an advantage in that standpoint. As much as we dont want anyone to get hurt, we do have to take advantage of the mismatches and being able to control the boards."
Jones was right on the money pre-game, and the New York Liberty were able to do just that. She played exceptional defense on both Alyssa Thomas and DeWanna Bonner in the paint. Thomas and Bonner, the two anchors of the Sun, had a combined 17 points, 8 rebounds, on 5-16 field goal shooting. Even worse, Thomas acquired 3 fouls by halftime, and 4 by the end of the third quarter.
By the end of regulation, New York dominated on the boards, 40-27, along in the paint, 42-28. Brondello's squad held Connecticut to just 33 percent shooting from the field, and 30 percent from the three. Prior to this game, the Sun shot a remarkable 63.6 percent from downtown against Phoenix. Stephanie Whites squad only had two players that finished with points in double figures, Tiffany Hayes with 11, and Olivia Nelson-Ododa with 10 points.
You read that correctly, 11 points. The caliber of defense played by New York was so extraordinary, their leading scorer didn't break past 11 points scored. Since the All-Star break, the Liberty have the best win percentage in the league (.833), remain the top offensive team, and second defensively, behind Los Angeles. New York handed Connecticut their worst loss of the season, with a low of 58 points. In fact, it was their worst game against New York since September 2021.
Betnijah Laney is a key factor on both sides of the ball
BIG B
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) September 2, 2023#QueenBforDPOY pic.twitter.com/1z8j3Qsjcl
Liberty forward Betnijah Laney is certainly making her case for defensive player of the year. In 28 minutes, Laney finished with 19 points, 3 rebounds, 2 steals and blocks. Although the box score doesn't always reflect the impact No. 44 has on this team, Laney continues to be a focal point on both sides of the ball. Without the presence of Sabrina Ionescu on the floor, we saw some different sides of Laney's game.
Along with some minutes at the point guard position, we saw several athletic spin moves, especially against Rebecca Allen and Tiffany Hayes. With a lineup of Marine Johannes, Stefanie Dolson, Kayla Thornton, and Breanna Stewart, Laney stunned the crowd with the ability to create her own shot. Towards the end of the first quarter, we saw No. 44 sink a step back, self created three point shot. The double coverage of Stewart, opened several looks for Laney beyond the perimeter. Although unable to finish some layups, the aggressiveness and hustle shown by Laney was encouraging.
Defensively, we saw Betnijah Laney play the lane effectively, and was a force against both Thomas and Bonner. The New York Liberty's highlight of the game included a come from behind block by Laney on Hatar, who is 6 foot 10. Post game, Coach Sandy Brondello reflects on her performance, especially her case for defensive player of the year. "She always gets the best player and does a great job of that" Brondello told reporters. She can score points too in a variety of ways. [Betnijah], we put her in spots to be aggressive, and then her just making great plays. She's great. She's a competitor, and keeps getting better and better."
Breanna Stewart is the MVP for the Liberty
When former MVP Breanna Stewart signed with the Liberty earlier this year, it was unclear how her statistics would change, especially with the level of talent and depth on the team. In her first season with New York, and 7th in the WNBA, the forward is having an MVP caliber season, which includes career-highs in points per game (22.8). There's one thing to know--many of her teammates consider Stewart the MVP of the team, and the focal part of the team's makeup. Prior to the matchup, Jonquel Jones emphasized the importance of Breanna Stewart, and the impact she has on the team.
"Her ability to score on different levels, defensively, being in the right places, and blocking shots," said Jones. "The thing that you guys don't see--is her commitment to the game, in the gym everyday. She's definitely been our leader, and our team wouldn't be in a position it's in today without her being able to do the thing's that [Breanna Stewart] has done." "Multiple 40 point games, she's our MVP, and I would love to see her win the MVP at the end of the season," Jones told the media.
Although Stewart finished with only 14 points, she strengthened her MVP case. In 26 minutes, No. 30 grabbed 10 rebounds, dished out 7 assists, had one steal, and shot 7-11 from the field. With the Sun doubling her, especially down low, it created space and opportunities for her teammates. Along with exceptional defense on Alyssa Thomas, Stewart made several mid range fadeaway shots, in addition to lay ins. With her high IQ on the floor and unselfish play, Stewart found several three-point looks to both Jonquel Jones and Betnijah Laney. Her 8 defensive rebounds helped the Liberty dominate in second chance points, as well as paint dominance.
The Liberty's bench dominates on the glass
Prior to the matchup with the Connecticut Sun, the New York Liberty ranked 10th in bench points, averaging 15.2 points per game. With New York's early lead over Connecticut, coach Brondello was able to rotate several players, and experiment with several different lineups. Defensive forward, Kayla Thornton, who was signed a multi-year extension with the Liberty, tallied 23 minutes, along with Stefanie Dolson, who finished with 18. Jocelyn Willoughby and Nyara Sabally were able to rotate in, especially with 4th quarter garbage time minutes. Center Han Xu, played over 5 minutes, in which the crowd erupted at the Barclays Center.
All members of the second unit were positive on the floor, and had a combined 17 rebounds. Center Stefanie Dolson was a great presence on defense in the paint, especially on Hatar. She was able to get to the free-throw lines, thanks to Alyssa Thomas, and sunk a no look three-point pass at the top of the perimeter. Thornton, a defensive specialist, had impressive minutes and matchup with DeWanna Bonner. Often times, Thornton forced Bonner to take missed shots, and had 6 total rebounds. With the bench providing 15 points as a whole, this is another example how the box score does not include the entire picture. The defensive contribution by all five bench players was eye opening, especially with the playoffs in sight.
The Liberty sweep the Connecticut Sun 4-0
In four games against the Connecticut Sun, the Liberty won all four matchups, and had nearly a 60 point differential across all of their meetings. Although the Connecticut Sun are the third best team in the league, the New York showcased why they are the superior team. Up over 4.5 games ahead of the Sun for the second seed, in 4 games, the Liberty outrebounded the Sun by 31, and shot close to 55 percent from the field last game. On Friday's matchup, the Liberty had four players with points in double-figures, including Marine Johannes, who received the starting nod in place of Ionescu.
With both teams locked in as playoff seeds, the Liberty will face the Chicago Sky Sunday, and the Connecticut Sun against the Sparks on Tuesday.
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Sara Jane is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, Journalist, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics.
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The New York Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces 99-61, and handed Vegas their biggest loss of the season. Coming into this highly anticipated matchup, the Aces were 24-2, and fresh off eight straight wins. The 1998 Houston Comets hold the best record in WNBA History (27-3), and the Las Vegas still have the chance to beat that record. The game was broadcasted on ABC and had a sellout crowd of 11,418 fans at the Barclays Center. As of three weeks ago, the WNBA's viewership was up 46 percent compared to last season. The crowd was electric, as the top two teams played the first of four matchups in August. WNBA Commisioner, Cathy Englebert was present, and discussed the growth of the WNBA, which will be touched upon in the next article.
STRAIGHT DOMINANCE
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 6, 2023
The #2 @nyliberty defeat the #1 Las Vegas Aces 99-61 to even out the szn series at 1-1, led by @sabrina_i20's 31 PTS#MoreThanGame pic.twitter.com/Ug6FBG6VN0
New York Liberty Head Coach Sandy Brondello on a sold-out crowd
Prior to the game, Liberty Head Coach Sandy Brondello talked about the importance of a sold-out crowd.
"I think it's great that people are coming out to watch women's basketball and the WNBA. These are the best players in the world," said Brondello. "We've had great crowds, but really excited about the crowd tonight, because you know it's two really good teams going against each other. "
On Sunday, the New York Liberty hosted their annual women's health game, presented by Empire BlueCross BlueShield. Outside the Barclays, the health fair included mammogram screenings, and additional resources. The Multiple Myeloma Reaearch Foundation teamed up with the New York Liberty, and donated $500 per every Courtney Vandersloot assist, in order to raise awareness.
Before the game, Courtney Vandersloot expressed her gratitude for the awareness, and that her mother suffers from multiple myeloma.
"It's so big not only for me, but for the community—when I was going through all of this [free agency], when I was meeting with New York, it was really big on them to promise and support me in any way they wanted," said Vandersloot. "For something that's so important to me, and specifically my mom, and the whole community, I'm excited."
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 6, 2023
@barclayscenter pic.twitter.com/1KhzAfW4pk
The New York Liberty dominated on the Glass
In their first matchup of the season, the Aces crushed the Liberty 98-81, in which New York created seventeen total turnovers. Las Vegas outscored New York in the paint, and had ten steals as a team. This second game, New York made a statement.
Prior to the win, New York had 31 rebounds in June against Vegas. On Sunday, the Liberty grabbed 48 boards, including 14 by Jonquel Jones. The Liberty starting five each seized at least four rebounds, and had key defensive boards by Betnijah Laney, Kayla Thornton, Breanna Stewart, Courtney Vandersloot, and Sabrina Ionescu. The fight for the boxouts, as well as boards, created twenty second chance points for New York, compared to the Aces zero.
Tuff board for a tuff buck
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 6, 2023@jus242 is our @Withings Highlight of the Game pic.twitter.com/9vXoQNo6at
The New York Liberty controlled the boards, with 26 by halftime, and limited the Aces to 12 in each of the halves. We saw several put backs by Liberty's Jonquel Jones, and rebounds that led to three-point shots, made by Ionescu, Laney, Vandersloot, and Stewart. Overall, it was a physical game, and team effort by the Liberty, who rank second in the WNBA in rebounds per game (38.5), and third in opponent rebounds per game (33.4). New York held Vegas star, A'ja Wilson, who ranks third in rebounds, to 7, and the Aces, to 24 rebounds (ten less than their game average).
New York forward Jonquel Jones talked in depth about the difference between this game, and the prior with Vegas.
"I think everybody was just locked in. I think that was the biggest thing—I felt like everyone was on the same page—when you play defense like that, it's really hard, said Jones."
Coach Brondello on second chance points and rebounding
Coach Sandy Brondello weighed in on the importance of rebounds, and how her team has improved post all-star break. "You want to be a great defense rebounding team, and I think since the all-star break, that's where we really got going—JJ's been a monster lately. Just really establishing herself down low and being relentless. Those extra possessions certainly did help us. It's just everyone doing their jobs and finishing, " said Brondello.
Coach @SBrondello is a whole MOOD!! That griddy was clean too
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 7, 2023
Liberty forward, Betnijah Laney, was a huge presence on the glass for New York. In 32 minutes, Laney grabbed 9 boards. She also played on key role on defense, as well as the offense.
Sabrina Ionescu dominates
New York Liberty star, Sabrina Ionescu was locked in, from the time of warmups, until the end of the games. Whether in the corner or at the hash, Ionescu wasn't missing any buckets pre-game, and that translated throughout the entire matchup.
New York Liberty’s Sabrina Ionescu with some warm up shots
— Ballislife Bets (@BallislifeBets) August 6, 2023
The Aces have the highest net rating in the league, and the overall best defense. Sabrina Ionescu, a lethal weapon beyond the arc, was deemed unguardable. Shooting 44 percent from the three-point this season, the Liberty guard finished with 31 points, 5 rebounds, and 7 assists. It marked her fifth 30-point game this season, which tied her 2022 record. Ionescu had 23 points by the first half, in which she finished the game on 6-10 three-point shooting, and 12-19 from the field.
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 6, 2023
FINAL SCORES & TOP PERFORMERS THREAD
The @nyliberty dominated in a 38-PT win over the defending champs behind a monster performance from @sabrina_i20
The third-year guard also leads the league with 94 three-pointers made. New York's Betnijah Laney had a beautiful defensive save, which turned into Ionescu hitting a three-pointer from nearly the logo. The all-star impressed the home crowd, took advantage of open looks, the pick and roll, full court presses, along with off ball screens. Ionescu pounded the lay ins, made crisp, sharp passes, only comitting one turnover.
The New York Liberty had a monster second half
The second half of the game was entertaining, yet simply magnificent. The Liberty went on a 35-9 run with 8 minutes to go, and outscored the Aces 30-9 in the third quarter. On Sunday afternoon, New York shot 50 percent from the field, 44 percent from the three, and made all of their shots at the line. Their 38-point win over the Aces was the second largest in team history, and arguably New York's best game of the year.
Defensive Showdown
Defensively, New York held Las Vegas, the leading offensive team in the league, to just 17 points in the second half. By the end of the first quarter, Aces player, Jackie Young had 8 points, and couldn't be stopped inside. In the second quarter, New York collapsed inside the paint, allowing Aces guard, Kelsey Plum, to knock down threes. The Liberty mainly opted to play man defense, creating the stops in the interior, and switching on screens.
New York made adjustments, and Betnijah Laney played strong defense. Liberty star, Breanna Stewart had a tough matchup with Aces A'ja Wilson, who had 11 of her 23 points in the fourth quarter. Stewart, who had three blocks and steals, held Wilson to 9 points on 2-14 shooting. Overall, it was a solid team effort on both sides of the ball, with terrific ball movement. On offense, they looked for the mismatches, and capitalized on them.
THE GENERAL
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 6, 2023@Sloot22 is now second in all-time W assists
In addition, Courtney Vandersloot finished with ten points, and six assists, which puts her second on the all-time assist list. Her six dimes raised $3000 for the Multiple Myeloma Research Foundation.
Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart on the victory
If you were watching the game on ABC, the Liberty were having fun as a team. Poised to win a championship with Jonquel Jones, Sabrina Ionescu, and Breanna Stewart, the starting five had 25 assists, and won four straight games. With the amount of talent and options on this team, Sabrina Ionescu gave her thoughts post-game.
"A lot of fun, just being able to share the ball and understand that we have so many weapons and ways we can attack—the more we're able to figure out one another and continue to build chemistry, we're just a tough team to beat, and I think we were able to show that tonight," said Ionescu.
Breanna Stewart was asked about the victory over the best team in the league, and what message that win sent to the league.
"The statement that we made is, we're taking the plays hard, and especially, when we really lock in and are all on the same page, defensively, and offensively. It's hard to stop. We had a 50,40,100 game, which is kind of crazy."
2023 WNBA Commissioner Cup
The #CommissionersCup Championship between the returning @LVAces and the first-time @nyliberty is set
— WNBA (@WNBA) August 7, 2023
Will the cup stay in Sin City or head to the Big Apple? Find outAugust 15th
Las Vegas
https://t.co/1TlMjtlNHk
WNBA Commissioner's Cup presented by @coinbase pic.twitter.com/vxMEc7yntL
The WNBA Commissioner Cup is an in-season tournament, where teams compete for funds with the addition charitable donations. The New York Liberty will play the Las Vegas Aces for this year's cup, on Tuesday, August 15th, at Michelob ULTRA Arena. Both Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart gave their thoughts on the upcoming cup matchup.
"It was a goal of ours, obviously, to play for a Commissioners Cup championship. Understanding that, we've set the level of how we need to play every single game, in order to be at our best," said Ionescu.
The New York Liberty are set to face the Aces three more times in August, including for the Cup.
Sabrina humbly talked about her team, what the win meant tonight, and future matchups with Vegas. "Throughout the next month, we're gonna se them a lot, so we have to continue to just make adjustments and play within ourselves and continue to get better." "We are not sitting here jumping for joy that we beat them. I think for us, it's just a wakeup call of how good we can actually be."
Stewart quickly added, "I'm excited for the charter."
The New York Liberty will next face off against the Chicago Sky, at home on August 11th. The Las Vegas Aces will face the Dallas Wings on the road, Tuesday.
For more WNBA related articles, click here!
Sara Jane is a full-time Sportswriter at BallisLife, Journalist, and Sports Content Creator on Twitch. She has a focus on the NBA, WNBA, NCAA Basketball, and the NFL. Sara Jane currently resides in Connecticut with her Cat and Dog. She is a Boston Celtics, Boston Bruins, New York Yankees, and New York Giants fan. SJ has her undergraduate degree from the University of Connecticut in Economics.
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