The New York Liberty edged out the Indiana Fever with a 90-88 victory on Saturday at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. The game featured strong performances from both sides, but the Liberty’s defensive efforts helped them hold off a late Fever comeback.
Key Contributions from Star Players in a Competitive Match
Fever guard Caitlin Clark led her team with 18 points and 10 assists, while forward Aaliyah Boston added 27 points and 13 rebounds. Despite their efforts, the Fever fell short against the defending champions. For New York, guard Sabrina Ionescu contributed 23 points, and center Jonquel Jones added a double-double with 26 points and 12 rebounds.
Controversial Final Moments Highlighted by Defensive Plays
The closing moments of the game sparked debate. Liberty guard Natasha Cloud blocked a layup attempt by Fever’s DeWanna Booner—a play some argued should have been called a foul. Shortly after, Fever guard Lexie Hull was called for a shooting foul against Ionescu with just two seconds left, allowing Ionescu to sink both free throws, putting New York ahead by two points.
On the final possession, Clark tried a three-point shot that could have changed the outcome, but Cloud stripped the ball from her. This play also drew questions over a possible foul, though it was not called by officials. Despite the controversy, Ionescu praised Cloud’s decisive defense at the game’s end.
Sabrina Ionescu’s Recognition of Natasha Cloud’s Defensive Impact
She had one against DeWanna Booner that was a huge block at the rim and then got a huge stop at the end (on Clark),
Ionescu said during the postgame press conference.
Cloud has made a strong impression in her initial appearances with the Liberty, averaging 18.7 points, 7.7 assists, and 5.7 rebounds per game along with 2.7 steals and 1.3 blocks. In Saturday’s game, the 23-year-old guard recorded five steals, three blocks, 16 points, seven rebounds, and six assists.
She plays with a lot of heart, and we know what we’re gonna get from her,
Ionescu added.
Upcoming Matches for Both Teams
The Liberty will face the Golden State Valkyries on Tuesday at the Barclays Center, with tip-off set for 7 p.m. ET. Meanwhile, the Fever are scheduled to play the Washington Mystics on Wednesday at Royal Farms Arena, starting at 7:30 p.m. ET.