New York Liberty Looks to Bounce Back from Crushing Game 1 Loss
The top-seeded New York Liberty is seeking redemption after a heartbreaking loss to the Minnesota Lynx in Game 1 of the WNBA Finals. Despite leading by as many as 18 points in the second quarter, the Liberty allowed the Lynx to mount an incredible comeback, ultimately falling 95-93 in overtime.
Lessons Learned from Game 1
New York coach Sandy Brondello acknowledged that while her team was disappointed with the outcome, they have learned valuable lessons from their mistakes. “Don’t panic, that’s the big thing,” Brondello said. “It’s a series. We are disappointed because we didn’t close it out, but credit to Minnesota. They didn’t miss a shot down the stretch.”
Players Reflect on Game 1 Performance
Jonquel Jones echoed Brondello’s sentiments, emphasizing that the team is not about to quit after one game. “We’re good. We’ll be back,” Jones said. Breanna Stewart, who missed a critical free throw in regulation and a layup in overtime, is motivated to make amends. “Because I am who I am, that’s why I’m in the positions that I am,” Stewart said. “And one game isn’t going to reflect what I do.”
Moving Forward
Brondello has reminded her players who they are and what they are capable of, and the team has been working on addressing their issues on both ends of the floor. “We can’t change the past,” Brondello said. “That will hold us back if we don’t let it go.” The Liberty is focused on playing the right way and staying true to themselves, rather than reinventing the wheel.
Game 2: A Must-Win
The importance of Game 2 cannot be overstated. Teams that have won Game 1 on the road in the WNBA Finals have gone 10-3 in the series, and all 20 teams that have fallen behind 0-2 have ultimately lost the series. The Liberty is hungry for a bounce-back win, and Stewart believes that there is beauty in the struggle. “I think what is really driving and motivating me is that we have an opportunity to change it,” Stewart said.
The Series Continues
Game 2 will take place on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, airing on ABC, before the series moves to Minneapolis for Game 3 and, if needed, Game 4. The Liberty is eager to prove themselves and show that they are more than capable of winning the championship.
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