Might 27, 2026; Brooklyn, New York, USA; New York Liberty ahead Breanna Stewart (30) brings the ball up court docket whereas defended by Phoenix Mercury ahead Marta Suarez (77) in the course of the first half at Barclays Middle. Obligatory Credit score: John Jones-Imagn Photos Marine Johannes scored a game-high 21 factors and her New York Liberty went on a 23-0 run to shut the third quarter en route to an 84-74 win over the visiting Phoenix Mercury on Wednesday.
Johannes made a career-high seven 3-pointers, lacking simply twice from lengthy vary. The Liberty additionally obtained 17 factors and 12 rebounds from Jonquel Jones, whereas Breanna Stewart contributed 11 factors and 6 boards.
Kahleah Copper led Phoenix with 19 factors, however she shot simply 6 of 18 from the ground. Natasha Mack added 14 factors, and Alyssa Thomas posted 9 factors, seven rebounds and 9 assists.
New York (4-4) broke a three-game dropping streak, its worst skid since 2002. Phoenix (2-6) took its fourth loss in a row.
The competition was a rematch of final yr’s playoffs, when Phoenix eradicated New York by successful two of three in a first-round sequence.
Two gamers made their season debut: New York’s Leonie Fiebich and Phoenix’s Monique Akoa Makani. Fiebich, who was late to the social gathering as a result of she was ending her Spanish League season, scored 9 factors in 33 minutes. Akoa Makani, who was ending her season in France, put up 9 factors in 19 minutes.
As well as, New York’s Betnijah Laney-Hamilton returned after lacking three video games due to private causes. She scored seven factors off the bench.
New York was with out All-Stars Sabrina Ionescu (sore again) and Satou Sabally (sickness). Sabally performed for Phoenix final yr.
The Liberty led 24-22 after an thrilling first quarter that included 12 factors and three assists from Johannes. She made 4 of 5 from 3-point vary and in addition had a behind-the-back cross for an help.
Phoenix took its first lead of the sport, 31-29, on a Copper 3-pointer with 7:03 left within the second quarter, capping a 7-0 run. By halftime, Phoenix led, 43-42.
The second quarter featured six Liberty turnovers and none by Phoenix.
Johannes led all first-half scorers with 15 factors on 5-for-6 capturing from past the arc. Copper topped Phoenix with 10 factors earlier than the break.
Jones scored 10 factors within the decisive third quarter. At one level, New York pressured 5 consecutive turnovers, and the Liberty entered the fourth with a 72-55 lead.
The Mercury by no means obtained the margin down to single digits within the closing quarter.
For the sport, New York shot 14-for-30 (46.7%) on 3-point makes an attempt. Phoenix shot 10-for-30 (33.3%), and the Liberty additionally had a 26-9 edge in factors off turnovers.
–Subject Stage Media
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