Game 4 of the WNBA playoffs semifinal between the New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces is set for Sunday. The Liberty secured wins in the first two games on their home court, but the defending champion Aces responded with a dominant 95-81 victory in Game 3 on their home floor.
For the Aces, Game 4 will be another must-win elimination game, while the Liberty will have their second opportunity to close out the series and advance to the WNBA Finals with a victory.
With their backs against the wall, A'ja Wilson and the Aces are expected to give it their all against Breanna Stewart's New York Liberty. The Aces are aiming for a historic three-peat, but to achieve this milestone, they must make history by becoming the first team to win a playoff series after falling behind 0-2.
New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces: Preview, Prediction and Odds
The New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces Game 4 is scheduled to take place on Sunday, Oct. 6, at the Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas, Nevada. The tip-off is slated for 3 p.m. ET (12 p.m. PT).
The game will be telecast live on ABC while the live streaming will be available on Fubo (regional restriction maybe applicable).
Moneyline: New York Liberty (+142) vs. Las Vegas Aces (-170)
Spread: New York Liberty (+3.5) vs. Las Vegas Aces (-3.5)
Total over/under: New York Liberty (o165.5-110) vs. Las Vegas Aces (u165.5-110)
Editor's note: The odds could change closer to the game. The odds listed were as per available information at the time of writing.
New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces: Preview
The New York Liberty were thoroughly outplayed in Game 3, largely due to star guard Sabrina Ionescu's off night. The 26-year-old, who had been sensational through the first four playoff games, managed just four points on 1-of-7 shooting.
The Las Vegas Aces' stifling defense disrupted the Liberty's rhythm, limiting them to 81 points, five below their playoff average.
For the Liberty to close out the series in Game 4, much will depend on strong performances from Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, as well as key contributions from role players like Leonie Fiebich and Jonquel Jones.
On the other hand, the Las Vegas Aces gained a much-needed confidence boost from their Game 3 victory. Becky Hammon's team will aim to build on that momentum and deliver another strong performance to force a decisive Game 5.
Unanimous MVP A'ja Wilson, who posted an impressive 19-point, 14-rebound double-double in Game 3, will look to set the tone on both ends of the floor. Chelsea Gray was exceptional in orchestrating the offense, while Kelsey Plum rebounded from her poor Game 2 showing with a 20-point performance.
The Aces possess the firepower and experience to put together another solid playoff outing at home, but it will take a collective effort to contain a talented Liberty team.
New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces: Predicted Starting Lineups
New York Liberty: Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, Leonie Fiebich and Betnijah Laney-Hamilton.
Las Vegas Aces: Jackie Young, Alysha Clark, A'ja Wilson, Chelsea Gray and Kelsey Plum.
New York Liberty vs. Las Vegas Aces: Prediction
The Las Vegas Aces will be fighting to keep their season alive, while the New York Liberty will be eager to close out the series and avoid facing an elimination game. With so much at stake, both teams are expected to leave everything on the floor.
Expect the Aces to capitalize on the energy from their home crowd and grind out a hard-fought win, keeping their hopes of securing a historic three-peat alive.