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Liberty Extend Win Streak to Seven, Punch Ticket to Commissioner's Cup Final

ESPN General •
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Breanna Stewart delivered a monster performance with 14 points, 12 rebounds and a career-high seven blocks as the New York Liberty rolled past the Washington Mystics 86-64 on Sunday. Her defensive dominance in the first half was historic - Stewart became only the second player in WNBA history to record at least 10 points, 10 rebounds and five blocks in a half, joining Brittney Griner.

Jonquel Jones took over in the second half, pouring in 17 of her 20 points after the break to help the Liberty (10-4) secure their seventh consecutive victory. The win clinches a spot in the Commissioner's Cup championship game, marking New York's third appearance in the midseason tournament's final. They'll await their opponent based on which team holds the better overall record between them and the Western Conference representative.

The victory also marked a significant milestone for the Liberty as Sabrina Ionescu returned from a seven-game absence due to back soreness. Playing just her second game after an ankle injury delayed her season start, Ionescu's presence gives New York their first fully healthy roster of the year. Her return sparked an emotional ovation and immediate impact with several key assists.

Washington (5-7) struggled to match New York's intensity despite Michaela Onyenwere's 17-point effort. The Mystics couldn't get closer than six points after the Liberty's decisive third-quarter run, dropping their third game in four attempts.