The Chicago Sky delivered a stunning performance Thursday night, defeating the New York Liberty 90-81 at the Barclays Center.
This victory marked the Liberty’s first loss of the season and showcased the Sky’s resilience and strategic play under head coach Teresa Weatherspoon.
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Chicago’s teamwork outshined Liberty’s star power
The game started with a challenging first half for the Liberty.
Struggling on both ends of the floor, New York committed eight turnovers, which the Sky capitalized on, scoring seven points off these mistakes.
Chicago’s gritty play was evident as they outrebounded the Liberty 38-35 and outscored them in the paint 46-36.
Their aggressive approach earned them 15 free throws in the first half compared to New York’s four, helping the Sky establish an 11-point lead, the largest deficit faced by the Liberty this season.
The Liberty fought back in the third quarter, led by Sabrina Ionescu’s dynamic play.
Ionescu, who finished with 19 points, was instrumental in cutting down the Sky’s lead and briefly securing a lead early in the fourth quarter.
However, the Sky’s defense tightened, sparking a 6-0 run that reclaimed their lead.
Mabrey showed up big for the Sky
Marina Mabrey was a standout for Chicago, scoring 21 points on 8-of-13 shooting, including three three-pointers.
Her performance was pivotal, especially a crucial three-pointer following two offensive rebounds that put the Sky up by seven late in the game.
Mabrey also contributed six rebounds and seven assists, making her the game’s MVP.
The Sky’s balanced offense saw five players scoring in double figures.
Elizabeth Williams added 17 points, Michaela Onyenwere and rookie Angel Reese each contributed 13 points, and Chennedy Carter and Dana Evans both scored 12 points.
Despite Breanna Stewart’s all-around effort, with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and five assists, the Liberty couldn’t overcome their early mistakes.
Jones, hindered by foul trouble, managed only eight points and four rebounds.
Nyara Sabally provided a solid performance off the bench, adding six points and four rebounds.
Stewart had high praise for Reese before tonight’s game.
“She’s a workhorse,”Breanna Stewart told The Post.
“She doesn’t stop. She’s tough, she’s strong, she’s tough to box out and good at cleaning up for her team offensively and defensively.”
Reese delivered on her reputation on Thursday helping her team grab their second straight win in the WNBA season.
Up next, the Sky will play their first home game of the season against the Connecticut Sun on Saturday, while the Liberty will head to Minnesota to face the Lynx.
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