The New York Liberty kept their perfect start to the 2025 WNBA season alive with an impressive fourth-quarter rally against the Indiana Fever at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The close contest showcased the Liberty’s resilience and highlighted Natasha Cloud’s decisive play late in the game.
Momentum Shifts Throughout Intense Battle
Both teams controlled significant stretches of the game, with the Liberty initially building a double-digit advantage. However, Indiana responded strongly in the third quarter, grabbing a 12-point lead early in the final period. Caitlin Clark energized the Fever with consecutive three-pointers, overcoming an earlier shooting slump to ignite the crowd, including a dramatic buzzer-beater to cap the third quarter.
Key Performances Propel Liberty’s Fourth-Quarter Surge
Despite Clark’s heroics, the Liberty stayed composed, led by Jonquel Jones’s dominant performance in the last quarter. Jones outscored the Fever in those final 10 minutes with 14 points, helping New York reclaim the lead. The teams exchanged baskets down the stretch, setting the stage for a dramatic finish.
Final Moments Define Game’s Outcome
With the score deadlocked at 88-88, Sabrina Ionescu calmly sank both free throws with just under three seconds left, giving the Liberty a slim two-point advantage. After the Fever’s timeout, they hoped Clark could repeat her late-game magic. Instead, Natasha Cloud made the game’s defining play by stripping the ball from Clark before she could attempt a potential winning shot.
Statistical Leaders and Game Impact
Cloud’s all-around effort was critical, as she tallied 16 points, seven rebounds, six assists, four steals, and three blocks. Jones finished as New York’s top scorer with 26 points and 12 rebounds, while Ionescu contributed 23 points, ensuring the Liberty remained undefeated at 3-0. For Indiana, Clark’s struggles from beyond the arc continued with just two made threes on 12 attempts, though she managed 18 points and 10 assists. Aliyah Boston led the Fever with a strong performance of 27 points and 13 rebounds, but Indiana dropped to an even 2-2 record.
Significance and Season Outlook
This thrilling comeback highlights the Liberty’s depth and ability to perform under pressure, especially with key players stepping up when it matters most. Natasha Cloud’s game-winning steal against Fever not only secured the victory but also demonstrated the impact of New York’s offseason additions. As the season progresses, the Liberty’s ability to maintain composure in high-stakes moments will be crucial in their pursuit of postseason success.