When General Manger Jonathan Kolb put the names of Jonquel Jones, Courtney Vandersloot and Breanna Stewart on his vision board he had in his mind eye several visions.
One is that the team would be in first place and holding a great record, the second is that of the team hoisting their first ever WNBA Trophy.
So far, the vision has been halfway fulfilled as the New York Liberty has an 11-4 record and currently sits in first place in the Eastern Conference standings.
The Liberty has been playing an exciting and fast-paced style of basketball that has fans believing that it is just a matter of time before the second part of Kolb’s vision becomes a reality.
Most recently the ladies defeated the Seattle Storm (4-12) by a final of 81-66 in WNBA action at Climate Pledge Arena on 7/2/23. This is the two franchises second meeting of their 2023 four-game series.
New York put together some impressive numbers to look at in terms of overall performance and individual performances.
Fans are encouraged to check out the following video featuring thoughts from Head Coach Sandy Brondello along with Courtney Vandersloot and Breanna Stewart from after the team’s victory over Seattle…compliments of the New York Liberty:
In terms of the team stats, the ladies were able to finish the game with a 46.5 % (33-71) shooting from the field, along with a 32% (8-25) from three, in addition they had a whopping 87.5% from the free throw line.
Also, the ladies’ defensive performance was outstanding, as they were able to hold Seattle, to 27 first half points. Another impressive number is the team’s season-high 16 steals.
There has been a ton of positive buzz around the team, as they have gotten some great news because of their play. It was announced by the WNBA that Guards Sabrina Ionescu and Vandersloot have been selected to play in the AT&T 2023 WNBA All-Star Game on Saturday, July 15 at Michelob ULTRA Arena in Las Vegas. Joining 2023 WNBA All-Star captain Stewart.
The last time the franchise had three players representing in the All-Star game was in 2003, and there are probably many fans who feel as if there are a ton more stars that could have made the roster as well.
Stewart, Vandersloot, Ionescu were three of the four that led the team in putting up some impressive individual performances in helping to lead the team to victory.
Starting with Stewart, as she tallied 20 points on 42.1% (8-19) from the floor, in addition to contributing eight rebounds, six assist and five steals.
In her fifth double-double of the season Vandersloot followed with 18 points, a season -high 12 assist, and five rebounds. These are some impressive numbers, as this is the first 18-point, 12-assist game in the W this season.
Ionescu impressed as well with a 13 point (on 41.7% from the field), while adding seven rebounds and four assist.
Rounding out the team leaders in scoring Betnijah Laney added 10 points son 50% shooting from the field, to go along with five rebounds and four assets.
Up next for the New York Liberty, the ladies get to return home to the Barclays Center for a game on July 5 against the Phoenix Mercury. The tip between the Liberty and Mercury is scheduled for 7:00 p.m.
For more information on the New York Liberty fans are encouraged to click on the link seen here: