The WNBA playoffs kicked off with an absolute bombshell on Sunday when the No. 8 seed New York Liberty absolutely wrecked the No. 1 seed Minnesota Lynx, 91-75, in a Game 1 shocker! This wasn’t some nail-biting finish; the Liberty flat out took control. They’re now up 1-0 and have a chance to close out the series at home in Game 2 on Tuesday night. Talk about putting the league on notice right out of the gate!
Stewie’s Unstoppable Playoff Masterclass
Seriously, has anyone ever questioned Breanna Stewart’s greatness? A few weeks ago, she was named MVP of the Women’s World Cup, becoming the first player ever to snag that honor multiple times. Then she steps into the WNBA playoffs and delivers *another* reminder that she is one of the greatest players, winners, and leaders we’ve ever seen, no matter the stage. Sunday’s Game 1 was a clinic! Stewart finished with a mind-blowing 34 points, 12 rebounds, six assists, two steals, and two blocks, all while shooting an incredibly efficient 11 of 18 from the field. That stat line is wild! It was her fourth 30-point, 10-rebound, five-assist game in WNBA playoff history, which is just insane, and she’s now second only to A’ja Wilson all time in 30-point, 10-rebound playoff performances.
Stewart herself summed it up perfectly, saying, “I was just really ready. If you don’t get up for these big moments, then you gotta rethink why you’re playing basketball.” She added, “From myself, mentally, just ready to do whatever it took to lead the team and get the win today. My teammates found me and got me good looks at the basket.” Liberty coach Chris DeMarco was obviously stoked, praising her versatility and leadership, and the belief she brings. “She’s just everywhere. We talk a lot about putting out fires as coaches and where’s the threat. She’s just constantly putting it out,” DeMarco said. “We can feel when she’s out there, it gives us confidence.” This team is one win away from becoming the first No. 8 seed to ever win a series against a No. 1 seed. Can you even imagine?
Aces Cruise, Wilson Stays Dominant
Out West, the reigning champion Las Vegas Aces made sure everyone knew why they’re the team to beat, cruising past the Indiana Fever 102-85. And who led the charge? None other than A’ja Wilson. In a truly dominant Game 1 performance, Wilson made it abundantly clear why she’s likely grabbing her fifth MVP award and becoming the first player in league history to go back-to-back-to-back. She dropped an incredible 38 points, pulled down 16 rebounds, dished out two assists, grabbed two steals, and swatted away four blocks. Her shooting was ridiculously efficient too, going 15 of 19 from the field! That 38-point effort tied her playoff career-high in scoring. Wilson’s response when asked about it? “It’s my job Holly, it’s what I do. I don’t take a minute on this court for granted. When I come out I try to be the best that I can be.” The other Game 1 matchups, No. 4 Atlanta Dream vs. No. 5 Washington Mystics and No. 2 Golden State Valkyries vs. No. 7 Dallas Wings, still had to play out as the opening day rolled along.
The Liberty now have Game 2 on Tuesday night at home. Can they make history and complete the upset against the No. 1 seed? All eyes will be on them! Meanwhile, the Aces look absolutely unstoppable behind A’ja Wilson, setting a high bar for the rest of the postseason. Get ready, because these playoffs are already delivering.
This article was created with AI assistance and published under Seattle On Tap’s editorial standards. See our Editorial Policy.
Originally reported by CBS Sports.
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