The New York Liberty (2-1) have had back-to-back overtime thrillers at the Prudential Center, as the ladies recorded huge victories over the Tulsa Shock (Friday) and most recently over the always tough Indiana Fever (1-2).

Leading the way for New York in Wednesday’s victory over the Fever was Essence Carson who had 21 points; Alex Montgomery added six of her 13 in overtime for the second straight OT victory for the team.

In this win the ladies rallied from an 11-point deficit in the third quarter to force the overtime frame. New York outrebounded the Fever for the first time this season, holding a 33-30 edge, while outscoring opponents in the paint in each of the first three games this season.

Here are some other notes and quotes from the game:

Essence Carson had her eighth career 2o-point game, while also leading the team in scoring for the second time this season.

Alex Montgomery topped her career highs in scoring and rebound with 13 points and seven boards off the bench.

Katie Smith is six points away from second place on the WNBA all-time scoring list.

Quotes:

New York Liberty Head Coach Bill Laimbeer:

On the overall performance:

“We played very hard on defense. It is just that we have to be more patient on offense and execute and we didn’t do any of that in the first half.”

 

On defense:

“I love our defense; we are very solid. We made a couple small adjustments. We rotated somebody to [Catchings and Zellous], not giving them the open looks.  We continued to play our shell defense, no drives. More importantly we started getting rebounds. We are athletic and we are learning everyday. The goal is to play our hard nose defense and find a way to score.

 

On the play of Essence Carson:

“Essence has been playing very well since she hit training camp. We defined her role and what is expected of her. Both defensively and offensively and I couldn’t be happier with her right now. She is very confident offensively going to the basket and her shot. On defense has always been solid.”

 

Indiana Fever Head Coach Lin Dunn:

On the Liberty:

“They’re a much more physical team, when you add Katie Smith to the mix. She’s going to be physical in crunch time and set the tone defensively. I also am liking the way Essence Carson is playing as well”

 

The Liberty will return to action on Friday, June 7 when they hit the road to take on the Atlanta Dream, with tip-off scheduled for 7:30 p.m.