Liberty Secure Final Spot in Commissioner’s Cup, Eye Knicks' Championship Legacy

The New York Liberty have rekindled the excitement of bringing a championship to the heart of New York City. Just under two years ago, the team celebrated its first professional basketball title since the Knicks’ 1973 win, achieving victory against the Minnesota Lynx in 2024. In light of the Knicks winning their first NBA championship in 53 years, the Liberty are now contemplating how they might replicate that success this fall.

Coach Chris DeMarco expressed his eagerness, responding with a definitive “absolutely” when asked if he was inspired by the Knicks’ recent achievement. Breanna Stewart remarked on the potential frenzy in the city if the Liberty were to secure a WNBA championship in the same year as the Knicks, stating, “Let’s talk about it in October.”

After an impressive 86-64 victory over the Washington Mystics on Sunday, the Liberty clinched their spot in the Commissioner’s Cup final. Jonquel Jones noted the significance of this achievement, saying, “It’s a pretty high number of teams that go to the Commissioner’s Cup championship that play in the (WNBA) finals.”

While the Liberty await their opponent, the Las Vegas Aces currently lead the Western Conference and have two remaining Commissioner’s Cup games. The Aces (10-3) hold a slight edge over the Liberty (10-4) for home-court advantage in the upcoming tournament championship set for June 30.

Historically, since the tournament's inception in 2021, either one or both teams competing for the Commissioner’s Cup have advanced to the WNBA finals in three consecutive years. However, Satou Sabally cautioned against assuming future success, acknowledging the expectations surrounding the Liberty’s third Commissioner’s Cup appearance in four seasons.

Sunday’s win marked the Liberty’s seventh straight victory, the longest active streak in the league. The team welcomed Sabrina Ionescu back after a seven-game absence due to injury, and she contributed five points, three rebounds, and three assists in her return. DeMarco praised her performance, highlighting the challenge of returning after a break but noting her excellent decision-making.

Reflecting on the earlier season matchup against the Mystics, which resulted in a narrow overtime win, the Liberty are now gaining momentum. With a nearly complete roster, Stewart emphasized their progress, stating, “We’re feeling a little bit more complete as far as having our whole roster today.” The Liberty are determined to maintain their focus as they set their sights on a title run.