Congratulations to the New York Liberty, the original WNBA basketball team, who claimed their first WNBA championship title in 28 years on Sunday (Oct. 21) over the Minnesota Lynx in a Game 5 victory of 67-62 in overtime to capture the finals series, 3-2.
While the New York Liberty has a roster filled with stars, it was Nyara Sabally who emerged as the unexpected hero. Averaging just 2.8 points per game throughout the Finals, the former Oregon standout erupted with a crucial 13 points in Game 5. But her impact didn’t stop with her offensive contribution.
Sabally also pulled down seven rebounds and delivered a game-saving block in overtime, swatting away a shot from Minnesota’s Napheesa Collier, the playoff leader in points, rebounds, blocks, and steals. The defensive stand was a defining moment, and Sabally’s teammate, Breanna Stewart, couldn’t contain her praise.
“We needed a spark, and she was that for us,” said Stewart, two-time WNBA Finals MVP. “She kept trusting the process, and we’re so proud of Ny.”
For the Lynx, Napheesa Collier put up a valiant effort, finishing with a game-high 22 points. Her early offensive surge gave Minnesota a 34-27 lead at halftime, and the Lynx seemed poised to claim another title. But New York’s resilience, bolstered by Jones, Sabally, and Stewart, proved too much for Minnesota in the end.
With the victory, New York’s long-suffering fans now have reason to celebrate. After the Liberty’s 3-2 series win, New York City Mayor Eric Adams announced plans for a parade to honor the team’s historic achievement, promising that City Hall and other buildings would be lit up in seafoam green to celebrate their hard-fought championship.
Finally, Liberty had its crown, and New York had a new set of heroes to celebrate.
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