Brooklyn, NY——On Tuesday, the New York Liberty (2-0) rallied from a double-digit deficit to defeat the Atlanta Dream (0-2) 83-69, securing their spot in the 2024 WNBA Semifinals.
Despite trailing by double figures, the Liberty pulled away in the second half, marking their second comeback against Atlanta this season. New York dominated in the paint, outscoring Atlanta 46-42 and grabbing 11 offensive rebounds.
The Liberty extended their remarkable streak of recording at least 15 assists to 126 consecutive games, the longest in WNBA history by over 50 games. The Dream started strong, launching a 16-6 run early in the first quarter to take a quick lead. However, the Liberty managed to withstand the early onslaught.
Sabrina Ionescu had a standout performance, tying a franchise playoff record with 36 points, which was crucial in leading the Liberty to victory.
“The ultimate goal is what it is. Every single game feels like a championship game as we aim for that final prize,” Ionescu said. “Our goal is to protect our home court, so it was vital for us to secure these two wins, rest, and recharge for the next challenge.”
Jonquel Jones also contributed significantly, finishing with 20 points and 13 boards for the top-seeded Liberty. They swept the best-of-three series and will face the Las Vegas Aces in the next round, starting Sunday in New York. The Aces were the ones who defeated the Liberty in the WNBA Finals last season.
Atlanta initially surged ahead thanks to Allisha Gray, who scored 14 points in the first quarter, helping her team establish a 28-19 lead. She finished the game with 26 points.
The Liberty entered halftime down 48-43 but responded with a powerful 16-4 run from the 6:26 mark of the third quarter to the 1:52 mark. They then sealed the victory with an 8-0 run in the fourth quarter.
The game attracted another sellout crowd at the Liberty’s home venue, featuring notable attendees like Olympian Gabby Thomas, singer Pharrell, and celebrities Spike Lee and Whoopi Goldberg. Rapper Ja Rule also performed during halftime.
