NFL
By: LaGrace Parker
The Connecticut Sun shocked everyone by beating the defending WNBA champions, the New York Liberty, 78–62 at Mohegan Sun Arena. It was Connecticut’s first home win over New York since July 19, 2022.
Marina Mabrey almost had a triple-double with 18 points, 10 rebounds, and 8 assists. Rookie Leïla Lacan scored 16 points off the bench by making 6 of 8 shots. This helped the Sun’s comeback after New York got off to a quick start.
The Sun’s defense was too strong for the Liberty. They forced a season-high 23 rebounds and won the battle of the boards 42–29. New York couldn’t get back on track even though Sabrina Ionescu had 23 points, 7 rebounds, and 5 assists. Collectively, the Liberty only shot 33.9% from the field and 22.2% from three-point range.
The Liberty were without players like Breanna Stewart (knee), Nyara Sabally (knee), and Kennedy Burke (calf) due to injuries. This was their fourth straight loss.
This win was more than just a surprise for the Sun; it showed them that they can still outwork and outplay the best teams in the league, even though this season has been challenging. For the Liberty, it’s a wake-up call before their rematch on Sunday. They need to regroup fast if they want to stay close to the top of the standings, despite the injuries plaguing the team.
Quick Highlights
-
Final Score: Connecticut 78, New York 62
-
Stat Leaders: Mabrey (18 pts, 10 reb, 8 ast); Lacan (16 pts); Ionescu (23 pts)
-
Key Stats: Liberty committed 23 turnovers; Sun outrebounded them 42–29
-
Injuries: Liberty without Stewart, Sabally, Burke
