In a dramatic conclusion to one of the most captivating WNBA seasons to date, the New York Liberty claimed their inaugural championship title with a heart-stopping 67-62 overtime triumph over the Minnesota Lynx. Not only does this victory mark the Liberty’s first championship since their inception as a founding team in the league, but it also cements Breanna Stewart’s place as one of the WNBA’s all-time greats, ensuring that Sabrina Ionescu’s heroics in Game 3 will be forever remembered in championship folklore.
The postseason was a rollercoaster of excitement, filled with edge-of-your-seat finishes and memorable comebacks. The Finals were particularly intense, with three games decided by a single possession and two going into overtime, culminating in a historic Game 5 that saw an overtime period for the first time in Finals history.
The series kicked off with a thrilling overtime clash in Game 1, where Minnesota’s Napheesa Collier sealed the win with a buzzer-beater. New York responded emphatically in Game 2, dominating with an 80-66 victory to level the series. Ionescu’s clutch performance in Game 3, securing an 80-77 win, put the Liberty in the driver’s seat, but Minnesota fought back to force a winner-takes-all Game 5.
During the championship-deciding game, Jonquel Jones led the charge with 17 points and six rebounds, earning herself the Finals MVP title for her standout postseason performance, averaging 17.8 points and 7.6 rebounds on an impressive 56.1% shooting. Nyara Sabally also played a pivotal role off the bench, contributing 13 points, seven rebounds, and crucial defensive plays in overtime.
Despite the loss, Napheesa Collier had an outstanding postseason and finished Game 5 with 22 points and seven rebounds, showcasing her talents alongside fellow Lynx teammates Courtney Williams, Kayla McBride, and Alanna Smith, who all played key roles in Minnesota’s deep playoff run.
The Liberty’s triumph is a sweet redemption after falling short in last season’s Finals against the Aces. As they revel in this hard-earned victory, New York can now look ahead to their next challenge – defending their title in the upcoming season.
