WNBA New York Liberty

Liberty Falter against Aces, 78-63

Published on June 13, 2018 under Women's National Basketball Association (WNBA)
New York Liberty News Release


White Plains, NY - Tina Charles caught fire early, scoring 13 of the New York Liberty's first 17 points as the hosts built a five-point lead early. A layup by the visiting Las Vegas Aces with a minute and a half left in the first quarter provided a 20-19 lead, they would fail to surrender the duration of the contest before settling upon a 78-63 final Wednesday evening at the Westchester County Center.

Despite the hot start from Charles, the Liberty (3-5) mustered just 33 points in the first half, a season-low. The offensive woes continued into the second half, as New York scored just 30 after the break. Their 63 points for the game marked their coldest offensive performance of the year.

The Liberty were unable to match its three-point barrage from a game ago, connecting on just four of their 24 attempts from deep tonight.

Head coach Katie Smith mentioned those struggles while highlighting her team's defensive efforts. "We held them to 78 points, which going into the ball game I would've been happy with. They're a high scoring team but we could just not get any momentum on the offensive end."

The Liberty not only struggled to score on live ball opportunities but struggled at the stripe as well. While the Aces went 15-of-20 from the free-throw line, the hosts earned six trips, converting three.

Center Kiah Stokes (left foot) and guard Epiphanny Prince (concussion) graced the hardwood after nursing their respective injuries. Prince scored three points in her seven-minutes production.

Shavonte Zellous commented on having a completely healthy roster for the first time this season. "It means a lot to have Prince and Stokes back in the lineup. If everyone can stay healthy, then you can see the depth that we have. We just have to continue to get better each and every day."

The Liberty hosted its annual Garden of Dreams night featuring a variety of special guest performances. The foundation's mission is to provide unforgettable experiences for children facing obstacles.

This contest marked the end of a four-game homestand for the Liberty. They head to Minnesota on Saturday, June 16, to take on the Lynx for the second time this season. The matchup is set to start at 8 p.m. (ET) at the Target Center.

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