The New York Liberty failed to overcome the Dallas Wings for the second time this season, losing 88-77 at home on Tuesday. This defeat came despite the Liberty’s stated belief that they were a different team since their May 24th loss to the Wings.
The Liberty held a two-point lead after the first quarter but faltered in the second, being outscored 29-11. During this period, the team shot a dismal 2-for-15 from the field, including 0-for-5 from three-point range, contributing to a 16-point halftime deficit.
Second Half Rally Falls Short
In the third quarter, New York mounted a comeback, using a 16-5 run to cut the deficit to five points with just over six minutes remaining in the period. However, the Wings responded by extending their lead back to 15 by the end of the quarter. The Liberty managed to get within seven points in the fourth quarter, but that was as close as they would get.
Dallas forward Jessica Shepard led the Wings with 22 points, 12 rebounds, and 11 assists, marking her third triple-double of the season. Teammate Awak Kuier narrowly missed a triple-double with 10 points, 12 rebounds, and seven assists. The Wings capitalized on Liberty turnovers, scoring 18 points off of 14 giveaways.
For the Liberty, Breanna Stewart scored 29 points and grabbed nine rebounds. Jonquel Jones, who was named an All-Star reserve prior to the game, added 17 points and 12 rebounds.
