CHICAGO, IL — Sabrina Ionescu returned to the floor at the perfect moment and delivered the decisive basket as the New York Liberty escaped with a thrilling 96-95 victory over the Chicago Sky on Wednesday night in Commissioner’s Cup action.
With the game hanging in the balance, Ionescu checked back into the lineup with just over 15 seconds remaining. Moments later, she took control, driving into the lane and finishing a left-handed layup with 10 seconds left to put New York ahead for good and extend the Liberty’s winning streak to eight games.
While Ionescu supplied the game-winning heroics, New York received major contributions throughout its lineup. Jonquel Jones paced the Liberty with 19 points while shooting an efficient 6-of-9 from the field and collecting eight rebounds. Breanna Stewart and Satou Sabally each added 17 points, helping New York overcome a determined effort from Chicago. Rebekah Gardner chipped in 10 points off the bench.
Chicago nearly pulled off the upset behind a pair of standout rookie performances.
Sydney Taylor erupted for a career-high 24 points in her first WNBA start, knocking down shots from long range and connecting on 57 percent of her attempts from beyond the arc. The rookie continued her impressive season, joining one of the league’s top first-year scoring groups.
Gabriela Jaquez also delivered her best offensive performance of the season, pouring in a season-high 22 points and keeping the Sky within striking distance throughout the contest.
Despite the strong showing from Chicago’s young core, the Liberty made the key plays late and secured a perfect record against Eastern Conference opponents in Commissioner’s Cup competition.
New York improved its position atop the standings and remained one of the WNBA’s hottest teams heading into the weekend.
The Liberty return home Friday to face the Washington Mystics, while the Sky continue their road schedule Saturday against the Dallas Wings.
