Liberty Edge Mercury in Phoenix Overtime Thriller, Take 1–0 Series Lead
The New York Liberty opened the 2025 WNBA Playoffs with a gritty 76–69 overtime win over the Phoenix Mercury on Sunday night at the Footprint Center. With the victory, New York takes a 1–0 lead in the best-of-three first-round series and now heads home with a chance to advance.
🔥 A Road Win Under Pressure
The Mercury gave their fans plenty to cheer about, battling the Liberty evenly through four quarters. Phoenix’s Kahleah Copper carried the scoring load, pushing the game into overtime with key baskets late in regulation.
But in the extra period, New York’s defense tightened, and Sabrina Ionescu hit clutch shots that silenced the Phoenix crowd. The Liberty outscored the Mercury 12–5 in overtime to secure the road win.
🚨 Breanna Stewart Injury Scare
New York’s joy was tempered by concern when Breanna Stewart appeared to injure her knee late in the contest. While she was able to walk off under her own power, her status will be a major storyline heading into Game 2 at Barclays Center.
⭐ Key Performers
- New York Liberty: Sabrina Ionescu delivered under pressure, while Stewart led the way before leaving with her injury.
- Phoenix Mercury: Kahleah Copper was relentless, scoring in transition and half-court sets to keep Phoenix in the game.
📅 What’s Next
The series now shifts to Brooklyn for Game 2. The Liberty will have the chance to clinch the series on their home floor, while Phoenix faces a win-or-go-home situation.