By: Jennifer Portee
6/15/2026
The New York Liberty are back in championship form. Behind a dominant defensive effort and a all-around offensive run, New York defeated the Washington Mystics 86-64 to secure a spot in the Commissioner’s Cup final and stretch its winning streak to seven games.
Breanna Stewart set the tone early with 14 points, 12 rebounds, and a career-high seven blocks, controlling the paint on both ends and giving New York a strong first-half foundation. Jonquel Jones took over after halftime, scoring 17 of her 20 points in the second half as the Liberty pulled away for good.
Sabrina Ionescu’s return added another layer to the night. Back in the lineup after missing seven games with back soreness and playing only her second game since recovering from an ankle injury, she was met with a strong ovation and immediately helped settle the offense with sharp passing and floor vision.
The Liberty led 36-28 at the break, with Stewart already stacking up 11 points, 10 rebounds, and five blocks by halftime. Jones helped New York find its rhythm after a slow stretch, and the Liberty used that third-quarter push to take control and finish the game comfortably.
Washington stayed competitive behind Michaela Onyenwere’s 17 points, but could not sustain enough pressure to threaten late. New York’s latest win showed once again why it belongs among the league’s best, and it also kept the Liberty in line for another shot at a midseason title.