The New York Liberty made history by winning the 2024 WNBA Finals for the first time in franchise history with a 67-62 victory over the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5. Despite a slow start and poor shooting performance, the Liberty managed to come out on top and claim the championship.
One of the key factors in the Liberty’s victory was the consistency of Jonquel Jones, who was named Finals MVP. Jones may not have had any flashy plays, but her steady performance throughout the game, finishing with 17 points and six rebounds, helped keep the Liberty in the game when the rest of the team struggled to score.
Another crucial contribution came from Nyara Sabally, who had a breakout game with 13 points and seven rebounds off the bench. Sabally’s energy and timely plays, including a crucial block in overtime, provided a much-needed spark for the Liberty when they needed it most.
The Liberty also adjusted their game plan by attacking the paint and drawing fouls to get to the free-throw line. Despite being a primarily jump shooting team, the Liberty shot 25 free throws in Game 5, compared to only eight attempts for the Lynx. This strategy helped them overcome their shooting woes and secure the victory.
While there were some controversial calls during the game, including a critical foul that sent Breanna Stewart to the line for game-tying free throws, the Liberty’s aggressive play ultimately paid off. Stewart’s mental fortitude and determination to make crucial plays down the stretch highlighted the team’s resilience and composure in a high-pressure situation.
In the end, the Liberty’s ability to stay composed, make key plays when it mattered most, and adapt their game plan to exploit their strengths led them to a historic victory in the WNBA Finals. The combination of individual performances from players like Jones and Sabally, along with a collective effort from the team, culminated in a well-deserved championship win for the New York Liberty.
