The New York Liberty took a 2-1 lead in the WNBA Finals against the Minnesota Lynx after Sabrina Ionescu hit a clutch 3-pointer from the logo to secure a Game 3 win on Wednesday. The Liberty's comeback mirrored the Lynx's Game 1 rally, with New York overcoming a 15-point deficit to claim the victory.
Earlier in the day, the league revealed this year’s All-WNBA teams. Three Liberty players made the cut, including Ionescu on the Second Team.
The Liberty dominated the second half, culminating in Ionescu’s game-winning triple with just one second left. After the game, in response to a question about her not making the First Team, she said:
"That was just a great All-WNBA Second Team performance."
Breanna Stewart was named to the First Team, alongside Lynx forward Napheesa Collier, MVP A’ja Wilson, Connecticut Sun star Alyssa Thomas and Rookie of the Year Caitlin Clark, who became the first rookie in 16 years to earn First Team honors.
Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones were both selected for the Second Team, alongside Phoenix Mercury's Kahleah Copper, Seattle Storm’s Nneka Ogwumike and Dallas Wings star Arike Ogunbowale.
Ionescu had a standout season for the Liberty, averaging 18.2 points and 6.2 rebounds, both the second-best of her career, during the regular season.
In Game 3, she contributed 13 points on 5-for-12 shooting, including three 3-pointers, one of which was the game-winner. She also added six assists and five rebounds.
Breanna Stewart led the Liberty with 30 points on 9-for-20 shooting, along with 11 rebounds and four blocks.
Jonquel Jones and Leonie Fiebich each chipped in 13 points.
Sabrina Ionescu discusses game-winning triple
Game 3 of the WNBA Finals came down to the wire after a strong start by the Minnesota Lynx. The New York Liberty took their first lead since the opening quarter when Jonquel Jones sank a 3-pointer and followed it with a layup, both within the final two minutes.
Sabrina Ionescu then hit her second 3-pointer, extending the Liberty's lead to four points.
The Lynx managed to tie the game again, with a Bridget Carleton layup and two free throws from Napheesa Collier. However, Ionescu responded with a clutch 3-pointer from the logo to seal the win.
After the game, Sabrina Ionescu admitteld she didn’t realize how far from the basket she was:
"In the locker room, waiting on Stewie. I really didn't realize how far out I was. I wasn't sure if I was dribbling with my right or left hand, but then was like, 'Oh yeah, I did hit that stepback.'"
The Liberty will aim to secure their first-ever championship on Friday. If necessary, a decisive Game 5 will take place on Oct. 20.