New York Liberty Secure their spot in the Finals!
Photo by Riley Lorenz
In a game that radiated energy and excitement, the New York Liberty punched their ticket to the 2023 WNBA Finals, setting the stage for an epic showdown against the reigning champions, the Las Vegas Aces. With a heart-pounding 87-84 victory over the Connecticut Sun in Game 4 of the semifinals, the Liberty proved they're a force to be reckoned with in the league.
From the very beginning, the Liberty embraced their dynamic, full-force style of play. Their commitment to competitiveness was evident as they surged ahead, securing a spot in the Finals. Coach Sandy Brondello captured the essence of this highly anticipated matchup, emphasizing how it's a promotional spectacle for the WNBA.
The road to the Finals was anything but ordinary for the Liberty. After enduring five consecutive losing seasons, the franchise underwent a transformative overhaul, assembling a powerhouse roster that included MVPs Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart, as well as the legendary point guard Courtney Vandersloot. These additions were designed to complement their existing stars, Sabrina Ionescu and Betnijah Laney.
The Liberty stormed through the regular season, finishing second in the standings behind Las Vegas, and broke free from the shackles of past mediocrity. Their remarkable turnaround culminated in a postseason berth and their first semifinal appearance since 2015.
As the final buzzer sounded in Game 4, the Liberty savored their well-deserved victory. The significance of their accomplishment was not lost on them, with Breanna Stewart reflecting on the Liberty's remarkable journey. "The fact that the Liberty haven't been to a final since 2002 is wild, and to be able to have that and know that we have the entire city behind us is something that's really, really special," she said.
The Liberty is headed to the WNBA Finals for the first time since 2002. Photo: NY Liberty Instagram
In the decisive moments of the game, MVPs Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart took center stage. As the Sun rallied in the fourth quarter, the Liberty leaned on these two giants, with Jones delivering 20 of her 25 points and 8 of her 15 rebounds after halftime. Her clutch plays, including critical rebounds and a game-sealing steal, showcased her indomitable spirit.
For Stewart, the 2023 WNBA MVP, it was a homecoming to the championship series, and she rose to the occasion with a team-high 27 points, demonstrating her prowess with crucial three-pointers.
The whole city is behind the Liberty and this trip to the Finals will be cemented in history. Photo: NY Liberty Instagram
Yet, it wasn't just the MVPs who carried the Liberty to victory. Betnijah Laney, the team's X factor, consistently delivered 20-plus-point performances throughout the series, playing a pivotal role in each Liberty win.
For the Liberty, this journey was about much more than securing a spot in the Finals; it was about rewriting their narrative, breaking free from the past, and establishing themselves as a dominant force in the league.
As they prepare to face the Las Vegas Aces in the Finals, the Liberty stand on the precipice of history. The stage is set for an electrifying showdown, and fans can expect nothing less than an energetic, full-throttle battle for the WNBA championship. Get ready for a dynamic clash that promises to be a testament to the competitive spirit of the game.
