The New York Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces with a score of 79-67, securing their fourth consecutive trip to the playoffs. Sabrina Ionescu contributed 23 points, Breanna Stewart scored 18 points, and Jonquel Jones recorded a double-double in the victory. This win also helped New York maintain the best record in the league with a 23-4 record, as this was their second road win over Las Vegas this season. The Aces, who won the championship last season, were led by A’ja Wilson with 24 points and 11 rebounds, but it was not enough to overcome the Liberty’s strong performance.
In the first quarter, Kelsey Plum scored 11 of her 13 points to help the Aces take a 28-24 lead. However, the Liberty fought back, with Ionescu hitting a jumper and a 3-pointer to close the gap. Ionescu finished the quarter with 12 points. In the second quarter, the Liberty continued to build their lead, with contributions from multiple players such as Kayla Thornton and Alysha Clark. The Liberty held Las Vegas to only eight points in the second quarter, helping them take a 42-36 lead at halftime.
Despite a strong start from the Aces, hitting 6 of 7 from beyond the arc early in the game, they struggled to maintain their lead as the Liberty’s defense tightened up. Las Vegas missed 11 consecutive 3-point attempts leading into halftime. Clark ended their drought with a 3-pointer in the third quarter, but the Liberty managed to maintain their lead throughout the game. In the fourth quarter, Stewart and Fiebich hit key 3-pointers to extend New York’s lead, while the Aces were unable to stage a comeback despite efforts from players like Chelsea Gray.
Overall, the Liberty’s balanced scoring and strong defense proved to be too much for the Aces as they secured the victory and a spot in the playoffs. With key contributions from players like Ionescu, Stewart, and Jones, as well as solid defense throughout the game, New York was able to maintain their status as one of the top teams in the league. The Aces, on the other hand, will look to regroup after the loss and improve as they head towards the end of the regular season. Both teams will be looking to make a deep run in the playoffs as they continue to compete for the championship.
