In an intense matchup on Friday evening, the New York Liberty showcased their dominance with a commanding victory over the Washington Mystics, securing an 85-63 triumph. Sabrina Ionescu was a standout performer, contributing significantly with 28 points, connecting on four three-pointers. Jonquel Jones also had an impressive night, adding 14 points and pulling down 18 rebounds, enabling the Liberty to remain unbeaten this season.
The Liberty, who are the current WNBA champions, are enjoying their best start in franchise history with a perfect 6-0 record. The game took a pivotal turn three minutes into the second half when Washington’s Brittney Sykes narrowed the gap to four points with two successful free throws. However, a momentous 16-0 scoring run by New York, initiated by a skillful play from Ionescu, expanded their lead to 63-43 by the end of the third quarter.
Brittney Sykes led Washington with a 20-point effort, while Kiki Iriafen scored 12 points and Sonia Citron contributed 10. Despite their efforts, the Mystics faced multiple scoring struggles, including lengthy droughts in both the third and fourth quarters. Their shooting woes were evident, hitting only 28% from the field and sinking just four out of 16 three-point attempts.
The New York Liberty had concluded a challenging game against Golden State the previous night, which they won 82-77, marking the first of three games scheduled over four days. Washington took an early lead in Friday’s encounter, as Citron connected on a three-pointer. However, Leonie Fiebich quickly responded with her own three, propelling the Liberty to lead permanently. A subsequent 8-0 run by New York widened the gap to 19-10 in the first quarter.
Ionescu was instrumental with 14 points at halftime, and Fiebich was perfect from the field, totaling 12 points. By halftime, New York had established a comfortable lead at 44-32. Significantly, the Liberty continue to be undefeated in games where Jones achieves a double-double, with a stunning 26-0 record.
Next on the schedule, the Liberty will face off against Connecticut at home on Sunday. Meanwhile, the Mystics will prepare for their upcoming game against Indiana on Tuesday.