New York Liberty Capture First WNBA Championship in Thrilling Overtime Victory

On Sunday (Oct 20.), the New York Liberty made history by securing their first WNBA championship, defeating the Minnesota Lynx 67-62 in a dramatic Game 5 overtime showdown at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. This monumental victory marked the end of a 27-year championship drought for the franchise, one of the WNBA’s original teams, established in 1997.

The Liberty, having reached the WNBA Finals five times previously without a win, finally broke through with a hard-fought battle against the Lynx. The game was a back-and-forth contest marked by intense defense, critical plays, and controversial calls that ultimately pushed the game into overtime.

A key moment occurred late in regulation when Breanna Stewart calmly sank two free throws, tying the game and sending it into the extra period. Despite a rough shooting night from star guard Sabrina Ionescu, who went 1-for-19 from the field, other players stepped up when it mattered most. Nyara Sabally delivered clutch points and made a crucial block in overtime that shifted momentum toward the Liberty.

Jonquel Jones, the Finals MVP, was the centerpiece of the Liberty’s success, leading her team with 17 points in the deciding game and playing a pivotal role throughout the series. Her leadership and consistent performance were vital in securing the championship.

The victory not only ended the Liberty’s long-awaited quest for a title but also highlighted the team’s resilience and strategic depth throughout the season. For a franchise and fan base that had waited decades for this moment, the Liberty’s triumph stands as a defining chapter in their storied history.