Game 1: Liberty Start Strong Against Aces, Win 87-77
Breanna Stewart had a big game, scoring 34 points to lead the New York Liberty to an 87-77 win over the Las Vegas Aces in Game 1 of their semifinals series.
Reflections of Last Year’s Finale
Stewart noted that she didn’t forget the pain of last year’s Finals, where the Aces knocked off the Liberty. She reflected on her performance and how she could improve, saying "I think I’ve just kind of grown from it, had a lot of time to reflect on it… How I can be better. How to handle things collectively better."
Strong Start for Liberty
The Liberty came out strong in the first quarter, taking a 28-21 lead. They continued their strong play in the second quarter, ending the period up 48-40. Stewart was dominant, scoring 20 points in the first half.
Aces Make a Comeback
The Aces tried to mount a comeback in the third quarter, cutting the lead to 62-56. But the Liberty responded with a run of their own, extending their lead to 75-67 heading into the fourth quarter.
Sabrina Ionescu Shines
Sabrina Ionescu had a big game for the Liberty, scoring 21 points and hitting two crucial 3-pointers in the fourth quarter. She credits her performance to the electric atmosphere at the game, saying "It’s a high-five, it feels like New York was injected into my veins."
What’s Next?
Game 2 of the best-of-5 series will be played on Tuesday night in New York. Becky Hammon, coach of the Aces, acknowledges the importance of winning the next game, saying "Do or die, you have to win Game 2. No other way around it."
Scouting Report
Kelsey Plum scored 24 points and A’ja Wilson added 21 for the Aces. Jonquel Jones had 13 points and 12 rebounds for the Liberty.
Context and History
This matchup is the first time that the WNBA Finals participants from the previous season met in the semifinals. The league changed its playoff format in 2016, allowing for this historical scenario.
Conclusion
Breanna Stewart and the Liberty showed no signs of slacking off in Game 1, dominating the Aces and taking a strong lead in the series.
FAQs
Q: How did Breanna Stewart perform in Game 1?
A: Stewart scored 34 points to lead the Liberty to an 87-77 win.
Q: What was the outcome of last year’s WNBA Finals?
A: The Las Vegas Aces won the series in four games.
Q: Why is this matchup notable in WNBA history?
A: It’s the first time that the WNBA Finals participants from the previous season met in the semifinals.
