The New York Liberty achieved a historic milestone, securing their first-ever WNBA championship by defeating the Minnesota Lynx 67-62 in a dramatic overtime victory during the 2024 WNBA Finals. This victory marks a significant moment for the Liberty, who had battled through previous seasons with near misses. The decisive Game 5, held at Brooklyn’s Barclays Center, saw the Liberty overcome a sluggish start, showcasing formidable defense to secure the win.
Breanna Stewart played a pivotal role for the Liberty, contributing 13 points, 15 rebounds, four assists, and three blocks, despite the team’s collective exhaustion evident long before the conclusion of the game. Though Sabrina Ionescu struggled with her shooting, going 1-for-19, her leadership and timely plays were crucial in the extra time. The frontcourt was buoyed by Jonquel Jones and Nyara Sabally, who together added 30 points to the team’s effort, particularly during the crucial third-quarter surge that turned the tide in New York’s favor.
On the Lynx side, star player Napheesa Collier led the charge with 22 points, seven rebounds, and key defensive plays, while Kayla McBride added 21 points. However, the relentless pressure from the Liberty’s defense proved insurmountable, forcing Minnesota into errors and missed opportunities during the overtime period.
This championship win is more than just a triumph on the court for the Liberty; it signifies a moment of redemption for one of the founding WNBA franchises, which had previously fallen short in their championship pursuits against dominant teams like the Houston Comets and Las Vegas Aces. The emotional victory was celebrated by fans and former Liberty stars like Teresa Weatherspoon, who were present during the celebrations at the packed Barclays Center.
