- 7/9/2025
2024 WNBA Finals - Game 3
New York Liberty Vs Minnesota Lynx
#nbafinals #superbowl #nbachampions #superbowlchampions #ncaachampions #wnbachampions
New York Liberty Vs Minnesota Lynx
#nbafinals #superbowl #nbachampions #superbowlchampions #ncaachampions #wnbachampions
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SportsTranscript
00:00:00points it is electric at Target Center a swing game three in a series in which
00:00:07New York has led for nearly 79 minutes through the first two games here we go
00:00:13game three is underway here is Phoebus Phoebus looking to take it to Williams
00:00:23right at her and lays it in Cindy Brondello told us earlier today she
00:00:27wanted Leone Phoebus to be more aggressive going to the basket looking
00:00:31for her shot so what does she do draws the first play up for her Minnesota 16 and
00:00:39Ford home in the regular season four and one of the playoff the best footwork in
00:00:47the WNBA for players 6-1 and able to hit from inside Phoebus connects on a three
00:00:54Sandy Brondello also thought Phoebus was a little too reticent on her catch-and-shoot
00:00:59opportunities in game two firing away here in game three really Phoebus is
00:01:05coachable and McBride able to get inside for two that's a good sign for Minnesota
00:01:10as well McBride held to only eight points in game two she's a huge weapon for
00:01:14them on the offensive end good start for both teams Phoebus loses he and Williams able to
00:01:20grab here is Williams
00:01:32Carlton into the corner Williams a three in and out but a foul Jones fouls Williams and
00:01:40Courtney Williams is going to shoot three free throws
00:01:46and of course you do not want to foul a three-point shooter you also don't want to
00:01:50foul a player who has not seen a shot go through the basket yet because they get to
00:01:54the free throw line this gives them the opportunity to do so and fine in the
00:01:58landing space but JJ just gets her right on the arm
00:02:02not a smart foul from Jonquo Jones either who has had issues with foul trouble
00:02:08throughout these playoffs who's a critical difference maker for the Liberty in this
00:02:14matchup she certainly can be the separator because she's 6-6 and long and
00:02:19Minnesota does not have a physical answer for her so yes she's got to stay on
00:02:23the floor for the New York Liberty three straight games with 15 points five rebounds
00:02:27five assists for Courtney Williams as she misses the final free throw longest
00:02:31streak in links history you saw the names and jerseys that are hanging up here at
00:02:36Target Center that's a remarkable feat for Courtney Williams good aggressive D from
00:02:41McBride who's gonna tie up Brianna Stewart for a jump ball you saw Kayla McBride on
00:02:48this aggressive switch out onto Brianna Stewart both teams talked about being
00:02:53aggressive this is what it is this is what it looks like Kayla McBride coming
00:02:57out on Stewie causing the jump ball show Reeve has to be thrilled with that
00:03:03yeah Cheryl Reeve told us before the game she thought in game two New York was
00:03:07just the aggressor she said they delivered blow after blow after blow we need to
00:03:12initiate that level of physicality New York controls the tip eight to shoot
00:03:19here's Yonescu and that's gonna stay here by the way that last sequence for New
00:03:24York Leone Feebish was charged with that turnover her first turnover over the last
00:03:31six playoff games it's ridiculous just four total turnovers this entire playoffs
00:03:39here's Stewart the turn can't hit Feebish got a hand on it for the rebound
00:03:45control by Minnesota saw four Minnesota defenders in there to crowd the board
00:03:50Carlton kicks it out Smith dumps it in Collier one-on-one with Stewart Collier can't
00:03:58finish it Stewart the rejection and then the tip out of bounds nine on the shot clock
00:04:03this has been such a fun matchup to watch the piece of Collier brand of Stewart on
00:04:09both ends of the floor good job by Stewart to keep her arms extended and not foul
00:04:13Stewart a record seven steals in game two of the finals McBride
00:04:22Kayla McBride gets her feet set as quickly as any shooter in this league 18
00:04:28straight playoff game with a made three for Kayla McBride third longest active
00:04:33streak in the league and a steal here Williams and McBride on the trap McBride
00:04:40lines it up
00:04:46Ryan Sandy Brundello has not had to call a first quarter timeout yet in these finals
00:04:52this is a period where they got to be careful another steal this time it's
00:04:56Collier Collier swimming in can't finish it got it back though here's McBride off
00:05:04the mark offensive board Smith Collier gets it to drop timeout New York what a start for
00:05:12Minnesota in game three
00:05:22the WNBA finals are presented by YouTube TV try it free today and in part by Gatorade is it in you
00:05:35well the piece of Collier and the links off to a great starting game three as we take a look at
00:05:44tonight's encore connection brought to you by Bumble here is Holly Rowe
00:05:48well Ryan if you can see her you can be her Nafisa Collier was a little girl growing up in Jefferson City
00:05:54Missouri and there was a player she looked up to who was having great success Maya Moore they both
00:05:59ended up going to UConn and forged a friendship and a connection both links draft picks Maya first in
00:06:052011 and Nafisa sixth then they've also hit game winners in the 2015 finals game three and the 2024
00:06:12finals game one for Nafisa she said that seeing Maya do it getting to meet her when she was in high
00:06:18school made her realize that she would do it too and here she is following Maya's footsteps what a
00:06:23great legacy for Maya Moore and what a great example she's been to Nafisa Collier just a
00:06:29wonderful connection there Holly and so well told Maya Moore one of the all-time greats in this
00:06:35league's history Nafisa Collier named first team all WNBA again today here's Laney Hamilton
00:06:42in and nearly another turnover as McBride knocks it out of bounds New York already with the three
00:06:48turnovers in this first Ryan I am so impressed with Minnesota's defensive intensity and it's
00:06:53been sparked by Kayla McBride yes it's the whole unit but she's been really active
00:06:57she's been jumping out on handoffs pick and rolls she has just been a catalyst for them on that end of the
00:07:03floor
00:07:05lady Hamilton has to get it in and can't
00:07:09that is now four turnovers for New York as McBride denied Ionescu keep in mind this lineup for New York has been terrific
00:07:19against Minnesota entering tonight they were a plus 39 in 65 minutes this season against the links right now being outscored 14 to 5
00:07:29Carlton in and out that's something Minnesota's waiting for trying to get Carlton going she's been quiet
00:07:35thus far in these finals but as we saw all year capable of hitting big shots and Smith gets called for the personal
00:07:43bodying with John Quo Jones on the interior
00:07:50Alana Smith gives up a lot of size to John Quo Jones so she cannot allow herself to get buried inside needs to be physical
00:07:57here's Stewart Stewart off the catch rummaging in can't make it home
00:08:09McBride dumps it down Collier between two looking for space
00:08:14can't finish it still spectacular footwork to get a good look at the basket around two defenders here's
00:08:20Phoebus in the corner off on a three and McBride the weak side rebound
00:08:26Williams zipping up the floor
00:08:33Into Smith out to Williams
00:08:35her jumper won't go
00:08:38rebound Phoebus looking to push the other way for New York
00:08:42Sabrina Ionescu has had her success in transition in this series
00:08:46Here's Stewart a deep catch and hooks it in on Smith nifty finish from the two-time MVP Brianna Stewart
00:08:53Thanks have been able to get really good pace in this game
00:08:55What do you see after Stewie scores New York extends their defense trying to slow Minnesota down?
00:09:00Here's Williams Williams had it knocked away by Stewart four to shoot
00:09:12Carlton trying to find space cannot good defensive set there from New York
00:09:19and a stop for the Liberty
00:09:21We've seen this connection throughout the season throughout the final Sabrina Ionescu looking to get the ball into Brianna Stewart
00:09:31Stewie does a really nice job shielding the ball with her body and her left arm
00:09:36Ionescu without a shot attempt yet in this first quarter at 12 points in the first quarter of game two
00:09:43shot just two field goal attempts after
00:09:46Stewart
00:09:47Can't hit Jones battling look at four
00:09:51members of the links trying to keep jonquo jones off the offense
00:09:54That's consistent for minnesota the entire first quarter already is they are going to get inside they know how much
00:10:02You know offensive boards hurt them in game one
00:10:06Four around jj and it still ends up with the liberty basketball
00:10:09New york had 20 offensive rebounds to game one tying a finals record at 10 in game two
00:10:17Here's stewart off the jonescu
00:10:19Carlton got out there quickly laney hamilton unable to hit the three
00:10:24Stewart keeps it alive as it's taken away by williams here comes williams
00:10:29serving it in plus the foul
00:10:31Outstanding defense by the minnesota links and it started in rotation and then you see the pick from behind look where she
00:10:45corrals the basketball ryan
00:10:47courtney williams always been a player who can just fly a little bit through the air
00:10:51who got a little bit of the arm but still gets out in transition a beautiful finish
00:10:55williams completes the three-point play
00:11:00new york has turned it over five times already don loves it courtney's father
00:11:06here we go unbelievable unbelievable that is the 27
00:11:13jump ball the visa collier has forced in these playoffs the last three games she's had forced at
00:11:19least four jump balls per game she just has her eyes on it knows when to reach in
00:11:27it's just it's extraordinary that a single player has forced that many jump balls and just for context
00:11:33now our database is on this as minnesota then wins that tip go back to 2018 no player in the
00:11:39playoffs since 2018 has forced even 20 jump balls foul here on stewart and that's going to be her first
00:11:47and free throws for smith do you know how much i love that this game has come so far that we have
00:11:52a jump ball database it really has come far it really used to be hard to get field goal percentage
00:12:00holly well guys alana smith is such an inspirational story she had been a wmba player after her career
00:12:07at stanford but she got waved in 2020 by the indiana fever she sat at home in australia and actually
00:12:13watched the wmba finals on tv and she had decided her career in the united states was over she was
00:12:20just going to play overseas until she got a call from james wade she decided to take one more chance
00:12:25on it played in chicago last year and then was a wanted free agent this offseason here she is in the
00:12:31finals good thing she didn't give up on that w dream well you're not kidding holly she has been terrific in
00:12:36these finals and this season for minnesota boy new york is just all out of sorts that is seven
00:12:44turnovers now in the first quarter for sandy brondello's team and new york had an advantage in
00:12:48the post-up with john cole jones but the pressure on the guards defensively by minnesota is what caused
00:12:54that errant pass they're just all over it on the defensive end carlton reverses it in 14-0 in points
00:13:04off turnovers and nearly another but a foul here on mcbride is going to prevent another one as minnesota
00:13:11has a two touchdown lead in this first show reeve wants bridget carlton being aggressive not only looking
00:13:17for her three but finishing inside that is a tough finish over jonquo jones 6-6 and long carlton uses
00:13:25the rim to protect herself from getting blocked what a bucket what a difference too in the first quarter
00:13:31new york outscored minnesota by 12 in the first in game one 10 in the first in game two and minnesota
00:13:39up 14 in the first here in game three oh biebus has got to shoot that jones in a crowd still able to make it
00:13:46work everything is hard though minnesota's defense their team defense is making everything hard for the liberty
00:13:58mcbride leading and hitting
00:14:03that looked easy 10 first quarter points for kayla mcbride
00:14:09remember janae said she was her player to watch tonight as brianna stewart gets cold for the charge
00:14:16that is be number two on brianna stewart and new york may want to take a look at whether or not
00:14:23courtney williams was in the restricted area watch where courtney williams comes from i've been talking
00:14:28about the minnesota links help side defense courtney williams on the far left side comes over
00:14:33gets her feet out what do you think is she set before stewart starts the upward motion i think she might be
00:14:39close but that's a just a critical foul as it's number two on stewart and the knee right to the midsection
00:14:5123 to 9 minnesota leads it in this first mcbride
00:14:55courtney van der sloot niara saboli into the game for new york
00:15:09big hand for courtney williams checking out natisha heideman coming in for minnesota
00:15:15how do you adjust to this defense we've seen from minnesota thus far if you're new york
00:15:22they just have to have crisp ball movement i mean it's hard you can't have too many dribbles
00:15:26they're getting attacked on ball screens laney hamilton knocks in the mid-range that's a way
00:15:31ryan ruko that's a way to adjust good screen that got laney hamilton free as well
00:15:37well laney hamilton one of the heroes for new york in game two put up 20 points carlton oh if she gets
00:15:47going look out 26 to 11 the lynx leading van der sloot gets hacked by smith that'll be number
00:16:03two on alana smith and free throws here for courtney vandersloot
00:16:08bridget carlton has needed to be aggressive on the offensive end cheryl reeve knows that
00:16:14just a little look to the side steps into her three
00:16:20carlton coming into this game had scored 13 total points in the finals already has five here in game
00:16:27three
00:16:33carlton
00:16:36thought she might check out but i think she just she just needs a towel for a moment that's all
00:16:43a little attention from chuck
00:16:44used to help our crew a lot back when we had medical issues back in the day taking a look at
00:16:51the upcoming wmba final schedule friday on espn game four eight eastern here in minnesota and sunday
00:17:00if there is a game five it'll be links liberty at eight eastern at barkley center for more on these
00:17:08games please go to wmba.com and visit the wmba app they have a growl or meter here in target center well
00:17:16the links are known to growl yes smith checks out with their two personals they're a jungle cat that's right
00:17:25you can see the the fans just piled in here at target center record crowd here tonight an incredible
00:17:37atmosphere this fan base has been a fervent one for a very long time since those dynastic years
00:17:47collier gets swatted from behind by laney hamilton tend to shoot for minnesota
00:17:52nice pass and just good recovery by benazolini hamilton getting inside getting collier from behind
00:18:04chechi zandalicini into the game for minnesota carlton heinz allen heideman and collier the others
00:18:13thornton saboli jones feebish and vandersloot for new york into the corner heideman gives it up
00:18:20carlton try to take vandersloot two to shoot lost the handle forces it up
00:18:29and did bridget carlton with the touch
00:18:36carlton averaging just six and a half points per game through the first two of this series
00:18:41already with seven in this first quarter vandersloot will let it fly and knock it down from three that
00:18:48started with niara saboli getting to the offensive glass and then wisely when she got the board it's
00:18:54the best time to get the three is off of the offensive board under a minute to go in this first the links
00:18:59with their highest scoring quarter of this series collier turns it over had seven turnovers in game two
00:19:06that was saboli again coming with the help defense saboli motoring inside couldn't lay it in but another
00:19:13good take from niara saboli who's given new york really quality minutes in these finals
00:19:21heideman swerving popping no and a foul is going to keep things here as vandersloot
00:19:28was trying to keep heinz allen off her back new york had a foul to give
00:19:34talking to myesha heinz allen earlier today a player with finals experience got traded from washington at the
00:19:40deadline and said being here has been an injection of life the thing that has just amazed her is how
00:19:47genuine the way this lynx team celebrates each other how they pour into one another by the way that
00:19:55foul number two on jonquil jones not on vandersloot but instead number two on jones so two on stewart
00:20:03two on jones for new york new york new york comes up with the steel
00:20:10shot clock turned off vandersloot dumps it in jones mouth to the house and jones gets hugged and fouled
00:20:19with 3.2 to go
00:20:21natisha heideman this has happened multiple times in this series where she gets switched onto a bigger
00:20:27player here she's trying to battle trying to battle she doesn't foul she waits for heinz allen to come
00:20:33over and she's the one who gets hit with the personal jones who is a terrific free throw shooter
00:20:42eight for eight in the series now 24 for 26 in these playoffs
00:20:53knocks down both some better possessions at the end of this quarter for new york heideman
00:21:02can't hit and that's how the first quarter will end a little seven two push from the liberty at the
00:21:07end of the frame but the links put up 28 and lead by 10 after one in game three benijah laney hamilton
00:21:16is with holly roe benijah you knew that they would come out with energy with this crowd behind them how
00:21:23do you think you're handling that right now as a group i think we need to be better we we knew exactly
00:21:28how they were going to come out we don't want to come out aggressive on both ends of the floor and we
00:21:31need to be better i don't think we're handling it very well but we know it has to be done we know
00:21:36what's at stake and so i think that right here we're going to come out we're going to be better
00:21:39they've played with great physicality they're forcing turnovers how do you answer that physicality
00:21:44just stay poised um i feel like we're getting away from what's worked for us so we need to get back to
00:21:49that we need to you know set up cuts we need to just do things to kind of get them off of us put the
00:21:54pressure on them thank you so much
00:21:59well the links with a terrific start to game three a 28-18 lead after one with a series tied at
00:22:05a game apiece second quarter action coming up next from target center
00:22:18welcome back to the wmba finals presented by youtube tv plenty of banners hanging here in
00:22:24minnesota at target center four-time champions have a 10-point lead after one quarter
00:22:28in game three series tied at a game apiece we chat right now with liberty head coach
00:22:32sandy brondello coach what's the biggest adjustment you need to see from your group
00:22:37after that first quarter oh well um you know the first five minutes we didn't come out with the
00:22:41urgency that we needed we didn't make him feel uncomfortable obviously that's their their home
00:22:46gin uh taylor mcbride got off and had too many other looks minnesota is so aggressive on the defensive
00:22:51end of the floor how do you do a better job getting good looks well we've got to have a little bit more
00:22:57pace i thought we were slow we weren't moving the ball real quickly we weren't intentional with how
00:23:01we wanted to play um they're being aggressive if we move it that's where we can exploit them
00:23:07all right thanks a lot coach eight turnovers from new york in that first zandalicini flips it in
00:23:14well role players often play better at home in the playoffs we have seen that early for minnesota
00:23:21shari told us before the game we need zandalicini she has been relatively quiet through these
00:23:26playoffs hadn't scored in the first two games here's thornton trying to take it to zandalicini
00:23:34forcing it up not a good possession there from new york
00:23:41item in out there with collier heinz allen mcbride
00:23:45and zandalicini as sabli comes up with a steal here's thornton getting it back to van der slew
00:23:53out there with stewart laney hamilton and niara sabli stewart's jumper rattles in brianna stewart
00:24:03now with four points after her historic game two this is second player in finals history with at least 20
00:24:10points five rebounds five assists and five steals elissa thomas the other collier can't hit here's
00:24:18vander sleuth with some paste or pace i didn't see any glue sticks
00:24:24sabli banks it in sabli's been really good she's running the floor well she's attacking the
00:24:29offensive glass she scored there that's what you want from your players coming in off the bench just
00:24:34a boost of energy and effort
00:24:35new york trail by 15 down to eight zandalicini hits again
00:24:50here's vander sleuth turning the corner can't connect
00:24:53hind down with the board numbers for minnesota
00:24:57hide him in the hesitation the attack solidly the block for more good activity there from the are sabli
00:25:05we've seen the impact that niara sabli has been making on both ends of the floor
00:25:11offensively here defensively able to get that block shot on hide him in and just attacking to the right
00:25:18side smooshed between two defenders still able to score
00:25:23zandalicini four points in this quarter after zero in games one and two williams can't hit
00:25:29it knocked out of bounds but stays with minnesota as new york unable to secure the defensive glass it's
00:25:38been the lynx who've been the aggressors on the o boards thus far in game three
00:25:44an area where new york has had a serious advantage in this series
00:25:47mcbride leans no mcbride keeps it alive zandalicini finds mcbride
00:25:59how many times already have we seen an offensive board on either end result in a three-point shot
00:26:05game
00:26:11lady amilton surrounded sabli muscling in and finishing
00:26:2035 24 minnesota leads second quarter action mcbride cutting through can't serve it in unescu back into the game
00:26:30You an Escu
00:26:32Shovels it Stewart gets down
00:26:34And Brianna Stewart is gonna shoot too
00:26:38Again Kayla McBride coming on the game two or she only scored eight points has 13 already here watch how quickly feet set
00:26:45Into her jumper so tough to close out when someone has that quick of a trigger
00:26:5113 points for Kayla McBride
00:26:53Who has just been a perfect fit in Minnesota Cheryl Reeve talked to us about how last year
00:27:02She wondered how McBride would handle being on a young rebuilding team and just talked about how her
00:27:09Positivity her energy around the young players was infectious and she was such a great leader for them
00:27:15And this year after some shrewd offseason moves
00:27:18That is soda right back at the contention now here two wins away from a fifth championship with McBride a key piece of it
00:27:31Stewart hits both free throws
00:27:35Smith to the shoot Smith
00:27:39And that's a shot clock violation more good defense from Niara Saboli
00:27:44Remember Niara Saboli a player who missed time early in the season with a back injury
00:27:52Mean she just looks so good and has infused this New York Liberty team with so much energy off the bench
00:27:58It's been averaging seven and a half minutes per game in these finals has played six already
00:28:05tonight
00:28:07UNESCO
00:28:08Yet to attempt a shot in game three Blaney Hamilton can hit the three on a really good look would have cut it to six
00:28:23McBride it's a collier
00:28:26How you're leaning and travel oh no, I'm gonna call it offensive down
00:28:32Oh
00:28:34Now you can lower your shoulder if it's on the route that you've been on you can't if it's a deviation
00:28:42From the path you were on
00:28:46It's the WNBA finals Ryan call that a trap. Yeah, I don't think that's a foul
00:28:51Call your deviation or not my man. Collier picks up her first personal
00:28:56I'll add it Smith comes up with a steal here is Williams
00:29:07And this time it's gonna be a foul on Phoebus
00:29:10That will be her first good action in the second New York trying to climb back in down
00:29:16Now
00:29:20Caleb McBride off to a terrific start tonight on both ends of the floor
00:29:23She's really set the tone defensively and offensively first possession of the game jumping out headed helping to get turnovers
00:29:29Stepping quickly into three-point looks and even ones that are well contested here deep three Laney Hamilton right there
00:29:37Can the pride feet says she's been terrific
00:29:39Caleb McBride 13 points already. It's time for tonight's access brought to you by my L. Caleb McBride wearing a mic for us tonight
00:29:50Watch doing what's doing?
00:29:52Lady lady lady lady
00:29:56Hey, hey keep playing around for each other switch switch switch get a bucket touchy
00:30:02You see how vocal
00:30:13Kayla McBride is when she talks about the defensive end of the floor Rebecca
00:30:17She talks a lot about the ways Katie Smith has helped her
00:30:20Yeah, she takes so much pride on the defensive end Katie Smith one of the great players in the history of this league now a Minnesota
00:30:26Ruling's assistant. It's really helped McBride grow on that part of the floor. You don't ask who gets a look
00:30:32Can't hit rims out on a three
00:30:35Williams able to flag down the board first field goal attempt of the game
00:30:39for you on escu
00:30:41Williams gets denied by Jones here comes New York off and running
00:30:46Laney Hamilton
00:30:48Net by Collier into the corner fee bitch
00:30:51It looked like she was quite ready to shoot here comes you on escu through the lane find
00:30:56Stewart for the lane and it's a seven-point game that possession a good example of what sandy brondella wants from her team moving the ball quickly
00:31:03Crisp passes until you find an advantage
00:31:07New York has shaved the deficit in half
00:31:11Down 15
00:31:13Earlier in this first half now down seven
00:31:16Here's McBride with Jones switched on her
00:31:19McBride bounces
00:31:21Carlton
00:31:22Punnix
00:31:23Credit Caleb McBride with that dribble penetration draws the defense
00:31:31Carlton 44 percent from three on the season
00:31:3410 points in this first half for Bridget Carlton who had averaged six and a half
00:31:40Through the first two games of these finals and such a good corner shooter
00:31:44Sabrina Ganescu has to come over to help on the dribble penetration and they just all the time in the world for Carlton to get that one off
00:31:51Nice cut from Stewart can't bank it in
00:31:57Big screen fee bitch goes down. This is a regular occurrence
00:32:02Laney Hamilton that comes up with a steal the pigs got to start calling out the third time this finals that fee bitch has gotten hit
00:32:09Well, you see McBride is Phoebe still
00:32:16Little taken aback. How about entering this game McBride and held New York to five for 26
00:32:24When
00:32:26Defending a Liberty player
00:32:28This the eye test would tell you those numbers have only gotten better here at game three. Yes
00:32:32You're next to great three players switch defensively by Minnesota up top
00:32:40Laney Hamilton not much space you're next school. This is the three Jones had the rebound taken out of our hands by Smith
00:32:49Down the floor now. You're the catch in the foul
00:32:54Stewart and you're next to in the area and the foul will be on you're next to it'll be your second
00:33:02The face of Collier running the floor calling for the ball and all the boys line a little hesitation
00:33:08To get you an escu off balance get to the free throw right here pull up and then go
00:33:13Really well executed
00:33:17The piece of Collier has run more than any player in these playoffs over 25 miles entering
00:33:26Today's game. She also runs the most if you want to just do it on a per-game basis obviously with her having now played
00:33:34As many or more games than any other player in these playoffs. She's a mom of a toddler. She's running a lot dad right off the court to
00:33:42Mila all-around target center
00:33:45Eleven point Minnesota lead here's you an escu didn't pull now will
00:33:55Can't hit oh for three from three and yet to score in this game
00:34:02Here's Williams working behind Collier
00:34:05Phoebus trying to hang with Collier Collier
00:34:08so
00:34:09That's a movie over the right shoulder fade away. That is the piece of Collier's go to a move
00:34:1713 point Minnesota lead
00:34:19And a steal from Collier here comes the defensive player of the year and still hurt able to snatch it back
00:34:29Jones deep catch and a foul and it's going to be on Smith and that will be her third
00:34:36Alanna Smith picks up her third foul
00:34:42Pre-game routine for the Fisa Collier is to spend some time with Mila
00:34:47Courtside as the teams are stretching. I love it. The little backpack
00:34:52And then here's her in-game routine right shoulder score money
00:34:57Got it
00:35:03Take some time to find a piece, you know
00:35:06Well, Alanna Smith not only picks up her third value you're trying to hang with John go Jones
00:35:11but also takes a hard fall on her back and
00:35:17Was clearly in pain
00:35:19As she hobbled back to the lynx bench getting medical attention
00:35:26Immediately and out of the game now would have been because of those three fouls
00:35:30So we'll have to watch her health status moving forward. I'm surprised Minnesota did not challenge that it looked like a clear offensive foul
00:35:38Steven
00:35:40Nearly shuffled the feet has to put it up
00:35:44Carlton comes away with it for Minnesota gang rebounding has been so good for the links
00:35:50Their defense has been suffocating as well
00:35:55That is soda has won the battle on the glass thus far tonight
00:35:58High talent can't twist it in
00:36:01Stewart the board look at a push pace for New York
00:36:04Liberty and cutting to seven a few possessions ago nice response by the links who have led by as many as 15 in this first half
00:36:12Jones gives it up Beavish knocks it down from three
00:36:22real only Beavish
00:36:24shooting it
00:36:2656% from three in these playoffs entering tonight really good look from John Paul Jones she will find open teammates on the opposite side of the floor
00:36:34Nice cut from your lazy
00:36:45Now you're up to nine points Williams up to four assists
00:36:48New York with eleven field goals in this first half and ten turnovers
00:36:57Stewart no
00:36:59Collier the rebound
00:37:01Minnesota plus four on the glass
00:37:09You can hear Cheryl Reeve yelling move move the Williams unable to hit the three
00:37:15Not a great possession for the Minnesota links good defense by the Liberty keeping them on one side of the floor
00:37:21Laney Hamilton being ridden by Carlton
00:37:24Laney Hamilton looking for a whistle and it's dead
00:37:28It's gonna be an offensive foul on Benajah Laney Hamilton
00:37:32Frustrated with the foul ball felt like there was a lot of contact from Carlton throughout that possession and credit Carlton
00:37:38That's what your job is to do defensively is to frustrate the offensive player. She did that forcing Laney Hamilton into that hook and foul
00:37:46Collier's jumper won't go
00:37:53Phoebus the board
00:37:5512-point Minnesota lead
00:37:57Jones
00:37:59Off to Phoebus
00:38:02Phoebus racing inside tucks it in
00:38:06Leone Phoebus the first member of the Liberty and double figures tonight
00:38:11Nine-second difference game and shot clock
00:38:13shot clock
00:38:15Williams thought about speeding into a two-for-one
00:38:18Instead trying to serve it in cannot shot clock turned off here and Stewart
00:38:24Will settle things in the front court for New York
00:38:27We feel much better about themselves if it's a single-digit deficit
00:38:31Here's Yonescu thought about the three will take the runner and drop it in
00:38:36First points of the game for Sabrina Yonescu and it's an eight-point game still five and a half seconds to go
00:38:43McBride found by Laney Hamilton
00:38:46New York had one to give
00:38:49Coming up on the WNBA halftime presented by State Farm
00:38:53The Lynx light up the Liberty
00:38:55The China Robinson
00:38:57Andrea Carter
00:38:58Chanae Agumake
00:38:59Carolyn Peck
00:39:00We'll have the State Farm halftime for you
00:39:03I know Chanae's feeling good about her pick-to-click being
00:39:06Caleb McBride
00:39:08McBride
00:39:09McBride out the horn
00:39:10Can't drop it in
00:39:12That'll do it
00:39:14For the first half
00:39:16Minnesota
00:39:18An eight-point lead at halftime of game three
00:39:21With this series knotted up at a game apiece
00:39:24Scoo
00:39:26Who scored just one point in the second half of game two on one field goal attempt?
00:39:31Scored just two points in the first half of game three
00:39:35One for four from the floors reach out now with links head coach Cheryl Reeve coach
00:39:40How about the effort from your group?
00:39:43Defensively specifically how you've been able to contain Sabrina Yonescu
00:39:46I just think overall we came with the proper aggression
00:39:50To start the game we continued that
00:39:52Ball pressure's good, they're not getting places easily
00:39:56Second quarter we weren't great offensively
00:39:58That led to some easy stuff for them
00:40:00But overall we're doing the pieces out
00:40:01You talked about needing more from players outside of your big three
00:40:05How have you liked players like Bridget Carlton so far in this game?
00:40:09I liked her real well
00:40:13Boom!
00:40:16Trying to take my job with that play-by-play Cheryl
00:40:19Thank you very much, we appreciate it
00:40:21Boom!
00:40:24Boom!
00:40:25She liked it real good and boom
00:40:26Yes
00:40:28Courtney Williams the big three to start this second half
00:40:31Alanna Smith is out there for Minnesota after dealing with the back injury picking up her third foul
00:40:40Late in that first half not moving great at least to the eye thus far
00:40:45See if it's something that New York can exploit
00:40:52Williams asking for movement
00:40:55Here's McBride
00:40:57Knocked away, Laney Hamilton able to hang with Collier
00:41:00John Quo Jones shovels back
00:41:03Stewart
00:41:05Dumps it down to Phoebus
00:41:06Guarded by McBride
00:41:08Phoebus turns
00:41:09Can't bank it in after McBride fell trying to sell the foul
00:41:13Minnesota guards though have done a nice job battling inside against Biggs
00:41:17Collier
00:41:19Roams free for the lay on a delivery from Williams
00:41:25Here's Yonevsku
00:41:28Off to Stewart
00:41:30Stewart into the paint elevates
00:41:32Can't finish
00:41:34But gets fouled and will shoot two
00:41:37We talked about Nafisa Collier and her movement off of the basketball
00:41:40Trailing the play
00:41:42Just doesn't get picked up
00:41:44No one sees her runs right now
00:41:46That's as easy as they come
00:41:47You know who does see her Ryan?
00:41:49Courtney Williams sees her
00:41:53Stewart
00:41:55Hits the free throw nine points for Brianna Stewart
00:41:58Who in game two had her ninth career
00:42:01Finals game with at least 20
00:42:05Second most all time only Maya Moore with Moore she has had 10
00:42:14New York has not been able to get closer than 7
00:42:18Since the Lynx built that 15 point lead early
00:42:22Good pressure defense here from the Liberty
00:42:25Williams trapped and Yonescu comes up with a steal
00:42:28Here's Stewart catch fire
00:42:31Can't hit
00:42:33Jones couldn't grab it
00:42:34Nice job by Collier to spring it free
00:42:37Oh Williams nifty
00:42:39And Collier to finish
00:42:46Huge swing there from the open three from Stewart
00:42:50And then the opportunity for Williams as Stewart misses again
00:42:530 for 3 now from downtown
00:42:55And New York is just 3 for 13
00:42:58And once again the gang rebounding by the Minnesota Lynx
00:43:02Foul here on Laney Hamilton looking to hang with Collier
00:43:06And that will be number 3 on Benajah Laney Hamilton
00:43:10Courtney Williams is one of those players who can dance with the basketball
00:43:12And she just wraps it around her back, looks, delivers, this is just a beautiful
00:43:19Behind the back and then delivery to Collier
00:43:24Courtney Williams throughout her career has consistently played great on the big stage
00:43:29As Alana Smith picks up her fourth
00:43:34Running through Laney Hamilton
00:43:40Alana Smith here trying to set a screen
00:43:42Yeah, certainly still moving
00:43:44So Alana Smith out with four
00:43:50Myesha Hines Allen in, how does that change things for Minnesota here, Rebecca?
00:43:55Well, spacing's a little bit different because Hines Allen isn't quite the three-point shooter for Alana Smith
00:44:00But Hines Allen will battle on the defensive end
00:44:03Brings a little bit more girth even if she has less height
00:44:07Here's Jones trying to go through that girth and does for the lane
00:44:11And Smith going back to the locker room again for Minnesota
00:44:24Collier directing traffic from the post
00:44:27Williams back to McBride
00:44:31McBride for to shoot
00:44:33Hines Allen
00:44:35Unable to hit the three
00:44:37Laney Hamilton the rebound
00:44:38And the difference, Branda Stewart was able to roam off of Hines Allen that entire possession
00:44:43They're not as worried about her getting those looks from three
00:44:46Whereas Smith who shot just under 40% from three this season
00:44:50Stewart gets that one to drop
00:44:52And New York within six for the first time in a long time
00:44:56Williams finds Collier
00:45:07Williams finds Collier, missed that layup, good help from Jonquo Jones
00:45:12Here's Laney Hamilton, kicking it out, Ionescu to the corner, had a three, didn't take it
00:45:18Jones will fire, no
00:45:19Really good possession though for the New York Liberty in terms of sharing and moving the basketball quickly
00:45:22Really good possession though for the New York Liberty in terms of sharing and moving the basketball quickly
00:45:2750 to 44 Minnesota in front, Collier's three
00:45:31Is good
00:45:33Shoots them selectively
00:45:36But a big one there
00:45:38For Nafisa Collier
00:45:40Yonescu driving in, pups it home
00:45:43That was a tough drive and finish because Kayla McBride was riding her the whole way along the baseline
00:45:49Collier has the last seven links points
00:45:53Up to 16 in the game
00:45:56Collier has it knocked away by Jones, trying to get back to it, being pushed out by Jones
00:46:01Six to shoot
00:46:03Look at Stewie, completely off of Hines Allen
00:46:06Williams dumps it in, Stewart comes back for the partial tip
00:46:10And Hines Allen the follow
00:46:12Keep an eye on that though, on the defensive end the floor, Brianna Stewart wreaks havoc when she's able to roam defensively
00:46:19Collier gonna get picked up, the personal here, her second
00:46:22Seconds
00:46:27Nafisa Collier able to pick, pop, drop the three and then on the other end
00:46:35Sabrina Yonescu just capitalizing on the baseline drive
00:46:39Yesterday, Minnesota links players and executives participated in a junior WNBA event as part of the league's continued commitment to empowering girls to play basketball in a positive and healthy way
00:46:58In partnership with AT&T, the event featured an on-court basketball clinic, a discussion about the values girls gained from playing sports, and a vision board workshop
00:47:09The Liberty trying to come back in this third quarter, Brianna Stewart roaming defensively
00:47:14Maisha Hines Allen on the entire season's only made 14 threes, so Brianna Stewart not even looking at her
00:47:20She is just at help side, help side, the New York Liberty here, their defense take away the paint, and they will invite Maisha Hines Allen to take a deep one late in the shot clock
00:47:31Oh, the Liberty turn it over off the inbound
00:47:35Niara Saboli trying to get it right back to
00:47:39Yonescu, and it just squirted out of bounds
00:47:41And of course Lyon, Alana Smith is a completely different story when she's in the game because she can shoot from three, you cannot sag off of her
00:47:50445 to go in the third, Collier turning
00:47:54Can't hit, Stewart the rebound
00:48:00Here's Yonescu
00:48:02Leaning through contact, couldn't get it to go, and then knocked away by Carlton
00:48:05Here comes Hines Allen in transition, Hines Allen can't reverse it in, a wild attempt, and Stewart controls it
00:48:16Yonescu yet to hit a three in this game, something she's done in 22 consecutive playoff games
00:48:22Saboli
00:48:25Carves in, can't finish, Stewart gets down
00:48:29Brianna Stewart will shoot two, as we check in with Holly Rowe
00:48:34Well guys, Alana Smith is still back in the Minnesota Lynx locker room
00:48:37I saw that their athletic trainer, Chuck Barta, went back with her, they have not come out
00:48:42I did see her limping heavily, she's very emotionally upset
00:48:48I know that she is exhibiting some pain in that lower back
00:48:51And here she is, she's just walking back out right now, but very gingerly, guys
00:48:55Alright Holly, thank you for the update
00:48:58Alana Smith, a huge piece for Minnesota, Rebecca, you just detailed it so
00:49:04Beautifully, it completely changes the way New York can play defensively
00:49:10And she's really good as a mover and cutter, of course, the second team all-defensive member as well
00:49:15She really helps Minnesota on that end of the floor
00:49:18New York now ten of ten from the line here in game three
00:49:23Seven-point game
00:49:24Carlton, giving it up, Collier four to shoot, added strip, we're gonna get it back
00:49:30And with one on the shot clock, we will have a jump ball
00:49:36YouTube TV has teamed up with the WNBA to support the American Cancer Society's Voices of Black Women Movement
00:49:42Join us in adding your voice to help save lives for generations to come
00:49:46To learn more, scan the QR code or visit voices.cancer.org
00:49:49Keep in mind here, Minnesota wins this tip, they still only have one second to operate with this shot clock
00:49:55That's why you see Kayla McBride clear on the other side of the floor, ready to play defense
00:50:02A 1-1 best of five finals, Collier tips it, New York wins it
00:50:07Liberty trail by seven
00:50:11Beavis with Vandersloot in for Yonescu
00:50:18Vandersloot
00:50:20Met by Heideman, backs it out, looking for space, draws two, Stewart's leader is good
00:50:28And it is a five-point game
00:50:30That was created by Courtney Vandersloot's ability to turn the corner, get in the paint, draw a second defender
00:50:36Stewart up to 17 points and seven boards
00:50:39Number one all time in points per game in the finals
00:50:43Liberty have not been this close since it was a 9-5 game in the first
00:50:48Hines Allen drains the jumper
00:50:53That's her reign
00:50:55That is huge for her, because New York left her to trap wide open
00:50:59You have to make the defense pay in those situations, she did
00:51:02Stewart
00:51:04Through the lane, forces it up wildly good deep from Collier
00:51:11Here comes Heideman
00:51:13Heideman working behind Hines Allen
00:51:15McBride gets it all
00:51:21And hits!
00:51:35When a player is getting played off of defensively, and Volper, she hands it off to McBride
00:51:41How does Courtney Williams feel about it?
00:51:43Three
00:51:44It is now time to take a look at what fans have been searching for, brought to you by Google
00:52:01Searches for WNBA championships history is a breakout search
00:52:05In the US, those four banners from the links
00:52:09Matching the most in league history, Lindsey Whalen was a part of all of them
00:52:14The outstanding all-world hall of fame point guard
00:52:17Thiebush is three
00:52:20Thiebush is three
00:52:22Able to hit
00:52:24A big one for New York out of the timeout
00:52:27Thiebush up to 13
00:52:29Brianna Stewart getting a rest right now
00:52:32Sandy Brondella running the set for Thiebush to get a look
00:52:35McBride
00:52:38Not that time
00:52:39The other franchises with four championships
00:52:41The Seattle Storm
00:52:43And the Houston Comets
00:52:45Thiebush
00:52:48Thiebush
00:52:51Thiebush
00:52:52Thiebush
00:52:53Thiebush
00:52:55Thiebush
00:52:56Fourth team foul the links first in the final two minutes
00:52:58Right side of the floor cleared out
00:53:00Dribble handoff
00:53:01John Quill Jones to Thiebush
00:53:03Courtney Williams goes behind
00:53:05You cannot do that
00:53:07If they had switched John Quill would have been rolled be able to roll into the paint
00:53:11Thiebush is shooting 60% from three in these playoffs
00:53:15With volume
00:53:16Incredible
00:53:17It's unbelievable
00:53:19Bandersloot bounces behind
00:53:21Heidemann comes up with a steal
00:53:23Heidemann dashing into the paint
00:53:25Can't curl it in
00:53:27Collier can
00:53:30How about Nafisa Collier
00:53:31Tips it first
00:53:32And then her second jump is so quick
00:53:34She gets it finishes
00:53:35Never brings the ball down
00:53:3718.7 rebounds for Nafisa Collier
00:53:40Jones wide open
00:53:43But Williams tips the rebound out of bounds
00:53:46And New York gets another chance
00:53:48With Laney Hamilton, Ionescu, and Stewart
00:53:50All checking back in for the Liberty
00:53:52Nafisa Collier runs over two miles per game
00:53:54And here she's on her force going the other way
00:53:58Tips the ball
00:53:59Gets it right back, right back
00:54:00Up with it as well
00:54:02Dbush and Saboli check out
00:54:05Here's Ionescu, catch, fire
00:54:08And hit from three
00:54:1023rd straight playoff game
00:54:12With a made three for Sabrina Ionescu
00:54:14That her first of the night
00:54:15And only her seventh field goal attempt
00:54:17Sandy Brandell is at the sweet spot
00:54:19For her is around 15
00:54:20Collier gets denied by Jones
00:54:27Stewart underneath gets down on the delivery from Ionescu
00:54:31And Brianna Stewart will shoot two
00:54:35John Quill Jones
00:54:37We've been talking about her dimension
00:54:396-6 long
00:54:41Comes over from the weak side
00:54:43And fingertips it
00:54:45She got her pinky caught in the neck
00:54:47While she blocked that shot
00:54:49It is time for try it free throws brought to you by YouTube TV
00:54:58Scan the QR code to unlock your 10-day free trial YouTube TV
00:55:02Try it free
00:55:04Today
00:55:05And the next nine days
00:55:08Stewart
00:55:10Up to 19 points
00:55:13Collier with 18 points
00:55:15Has tied Diana Taurasi for the most points ever
00:55:18In a single postseason
00:55:21McBride a big one
00:55:23Off
00:55:24Opportunity for New York
00:55:26Down just four
00:55:27They've trailed by as many as 15
00:55:29Nine second difference game in shot clock
00:55:32Things tightening in game three
00:55:35Stewart has the mismatch on Williams
00:55:38Stewart elevates
00:55:40And finishes
00:55:41Plus the foul
00:55:43Brianna Stewart
00:55:44Activated
00:55:45In game three
00:55:48Courtney Williams
00:55:49Stuck on Brianna Stewart
00:55:51Help comes halfway
00:55:53Little bump on the arm
00:55:55It's gonna be tough
00:55:57For Courtney Williams at her size
00:55:59To do anything with Brianna Stewart
00:56:00Brianna Stewart
00:56:04Brianna Stewart with her 10th finals game
00:56:08With at least 20 points matching Maya Moore for the most
00:56:14All-time one-point game New York on an 8-0 run
00:56:19Shot clock turned off
00:56:20Shot clock turned off
00:56:23Here's Williams
00:56:25Out to Carlton
00:56:27Six seconds left in the quarter
00:56:29Carlton trying to find some stays
00:56:31Carlton has nothing going
00:56:33Williams
00:56:35Can't hit
00:56:37What a strong finish to the third
00:56:39For the New York Liberty
00:56:41Brianna Stewart with 14 in the frame
00:56:44And the Minnesota lead is just one
00:56:47As we head to the fourth
00:56:57Brianna Stewart a monster third quarter
00:57:00Nafisa Collier a huge night
00:57:02She is with Holly Rowe
00:57:04Nafisa you said you wanted to be more aggressive
00:57:06And be more motivated tonight
00:57:08How have you fulfilled that promise?
00:57:10I think we did really good in the first half
00:57:12I feel like we kinda lagged off a little bit in this quarter
00:57:14What is allowing them to get back in this game right now
00:57:17And how do you fix that?
00:57:18Fouls, we keep fouling
00:57:20We gotta get our offense better and more flowing
00:57:22Thanks Nafisa, thanks
00:57:24Well Nafisa Collier 18 points tonight
00:57:26Has matched Diana Taurasi for the most in a single postseason
00:57:29But what was a 15 point deficit for New York
00:57:33Has been cut to one
00:57:34To one
00:57:36Fourth quarter action of game three
00:57:38And a 1-1 best of five finals
00:57:40Is coming up next
00:57:46Welcome back to the WNBA finals presented by YouTube TV
00:57:49Let's take a listen in to sounds of the game
00:57:51We at home
00:57:53Everything we got, let's go
00:57:55You're high, you're high, you're high
00:57:57Let's go, let's go, let's go
00:57:59Turn it up right now, turn it up right now
00:58:01Come high, come high
00:58:02Mike, get out of there, Mike
00:58:05Under
00:58:07I'm here, I'm here
00:58:10Come on Black, one minute, one minute, let's go
00:58:12T, stay there
00:58:15Well the New York Liberty have closed each quarter strongly
00:58:19Did it again in the third, an 8-0 run to finish the frame
00:58:22They are down just one
00:58:24A game that has had just one lead change
00:58:27And it came in the first few minutes
00:58:28The Onescu fouled by McBride
00:58:31And that will be number three on Kayla McBride
00:58:35Nafisa Collier
00:58:37Frustrated with the officiating, seen a little bit of that at the end of the third
00:58:42She actually told us earlier today, Rebecca, that she thinks they complained too much as a team led by her in game two
00:58:48Here's Jones turning, taking, can't hit, Stewart unable to grab the tip
00:58:57Smith back in, but really hobbling from end to end
00:59:03Smith in the corner, a three is blocked by Stewart
00:59:05It's blocked by Stewart
00:59:07Smith follows it up
00:59:08Has it knocked away by Onescu, trying to save it, cannot
00:59:14Brianna Stewart has a 7-1 wingspan
00:59:18Hard to buy shirts, but it makes it a little bit easier to do this
00:59:22Block shots, what a great closeout
00:59:23Sounds like someone speaking from experience
00:59:26It certainly is
00:59:28Much easier for all of us, shmediums
00:59:33Here's Williams, one to shoot, Williams
00:59:36Can't hit the three, Stewart the rebound, her ninth
00:59:40New York a chance to go in front
00:59:43Out to Stewart
00:59:44Bebound! Bebound! Bebound!
00:59:47Bebound!
00:59:48Bebound!
00:59:50Yonescu
00:59:51Fading
00:59:52Can't hit
00:59:53Rebound
00:59:54Loose
00:59:55Jones after it
00:59:56But it's Collier who comes away with it
00:59:58Her ninth four
01:00:00New York has not led since it was 5-4
01:00:05Williams
01:00:07Finds Collier roaming free
01:00:09Nathisa Collier
01:00:10Now with the most points ever
01:00:12In a single postseason
01:00:15Help was not there because Sabrina
01:00:17Yonescu was glued to Smith in the corner
01:00:21Unlike what they were able to do on Hines Allen
01:00:23And Stewart
01:00:24It's the tough fade away
01:00:2824 for Brianna Stewart
01:00:31Reminding everybody why she's one of the best players of all time
01:00:34Williams
01:00:37Pulls up and drains the temper
01:00:39Looked like she had a layup
01:00:41But she's the mid-range master
01:00:42That's right
01:00:43That's her kill spot as she calls it
01:00:46Three-point Minnesota lead
01:00:49Lainey Hamilton
01:00:51Around the Stewart screen
01:00:52Into the corner
01:00:53Jones to three
01:00:54Won't go
01:00:55Williams the board
01:00:56Here's Williams
01:00:59Off to Atlanta Smith who has by far and away the best plus-minus in this game
01:01:13Williams pizza pies it up
01:01:16Williams pizza pies it up
01:01:20Lunezcu looking to twist away from Carlton
01:01:23Look out
01:01:34Not enough velocity on it
01:01:37Collier in transition
01:01:39Smith a three
01:01:41No
01:01:42The piece of the piece of Collier defensively just reads the eyes of Sabrina
01:01:49Yanescu just comes in from the weak side able to get that steal
01:01:54Four steals for the piece of Collier who has looked every bit the defensive player of the year in these playoffs
01:02:02Yanescu nearly lost it out of bounds off of Atlanta Smith
01:02:06Defensive player of the year first team all WNBA because of what she can also do on the offensive end
01:02:15There's the record-breaking bucket more points in a single postseason than any player in league history
01:02:22Stewart connects
01:02:25It's tied at 66
01:02:28Wow
01:02:30Brianna Stewart has come to play
01:02:3327 for Brianna Stewart
01:02:37Completely dialed in
01:02:41McBride with the answer
01:02:47With a hand in her face as well
01:02:53McBride has had so many of those answer buckets in these finals and in these playoffs
01:02:58Something Cheryl Reeve talked to us about the other day
01:03:01Stewart pulls up
01:03:03Finishes plus the foul
01:03:05Brianna Stewart is on one
01:03:10New York set the big to big screen to get the switch they wanted they want Smith hobbled on Brianna Stewart
01:03:16She takes it right at her and just hits the tough one and gets the opportunity for three
01:03:25And that is number five on Atlanta Smith
01:03:30Stewart's free throw is good it's tied again it's 69
01:03:4030 points tonight for Brianna Stewart who is now 10 for 10 from the free throw line after missing that big free throw in game one
01:03:47Carlton leaning
01:03:49Carlton leaning gets the whistle against Yonescu
01:03:52And Bridget Carlton who Minnesota has implored to be more aggressive will shoot two
01:03:59Time out on the floor
01:04:086 06 to go in the fourth high game in game three
01:04:12The WNBA finals are presented by YouTube TV
01:04:22Try it free today and in part by Gatorade
01:04:25Is it in you
01:04:28Well you're not kidding Scott these finals have been
01:04:32Sensational each game
01:04:33Each game has been just unbelievable
01:04:361-1 series best of five finals history tonight for Brianna Stewart as well as Nafisa Collier
01:04:43And Bridget Carlton's free throw gives Minnesota one point lead with 6 06 to go in this fourth
01:04:51Links led by as many as 15 in the first half
01:04:54Liberty had cut it to 7-8 no further and then towards the end of the third
01:04:58Really found a groove went on an 8-0 run have tied it
01:05:04A couple of times but not lead first free throws of the second half for Minnesota there
01:05:09Here's Yonescu
01:05:11Stood up trying to get the theme is it's McBride on the steel
01:05:15McBride muscling in can't finish
01:05:18Knocked out of bounds and it'll stay here
01:05:21New York may want to take a look at whether or not that was last touch by Minnesota
01:05:25Maisha Hines Allen back in the game for Smith New York was able to pick on Smith a few times on the defensive end getting her switched on to Brianna Stewart
01:05:35I'll say that did last in New York meaning the Liberty bench agree
01:05:40Teavish nearly came up with a steal
01:05:43Atlanta Smith to your point on the bench with five fouls
01:05:46Williams the pull up rims out
01:05:49Hines Allen the put back won't go couple of missed opportunities there for Minnesota
01:05:55Under five and a half to go in the fourth
01:05:59Stewart on the move met by Collier
01:06:03Stewart has the last 13 for New York
01:06:06Yonescu
01:06:08No
01:06:10McBride the rebound
01:06:14Big screen again nobody pulling out these screens on Phoebus who is down
01:06:20Collier can't hit Laney Hamilton the rebound and New York is going to need a timeout
01:06:26Phoebus is still down
01:06:28This is the fourth time in these finals that Leone Phoebus has been absolutely smoked on a screen
01:06:37It's up to her teammates in transition to see this and call it out
01:06:42You are so vulnerable moving full speed Heinz Allen right there no one telling her
01:06:49Game four the best of five WNBA finals Friday night back here at Target Center 8 Eastern 7 Central
01:07:02On ESPN in the app WBA countdown tips off our coverage at 7 30 Eastern
01:07:08Leone Phoebus for the fourth time in these finals
01:07:11Just gets wrecked by an uncalled out screen was down for a while
01:07:17It's a legal screen. Yeah, it's absolutely legal
01:07:19But that's your teammates have to tell you it's coming and it's been happening because she's been picking up
01:07:27Meanwhile a record crowd here tonight Rebecca
01:07:31Largest crowd in Lynch history here at Target Center
01:07:37It has been sensational
01:07:3919,521 fans here in Minneapolis and what a game
01:07:49They have seen most in a finals game since 2007 as Stewart nearly got tied up again by Collier
01:07:57Threw it away 16 turnover from New York
01:08:00Two-point Minnesota lead
01:08:04New York's been able to tie but not jump in front after that big comeback
01:08:10Williams 7 to shoot
01:08:13Williams finds Heinz Allen denied by Stewart
01:08:16And out of bounds to New York
01:08:18Brianna Stewart with her fourth rejection
01:08:21Getting it done on both ends
01:08:23Yeah, she's everywhere on the defensive end of the floor
01:08:25She contests Williams then contests and blocks Heinz Allen
01:08:28Detens! Detens! Detens! Detens! Detens! Detens!
01:08:34Yonescu
01:08:35Detens! Detens! Detens!
01:08:37Yonescu give it space
01:08:39Flips it out
01:08:40Stewart a three
01:08:41No!
01:08:42Williams the rebound
01:08:44Lost it then
01:08:45Carlton after it
01:08:46Able to slip it over to Collier
01:08:49Four minutes to go in the fourth
01:08:55McBride guarded by Yonescu
01:08:59McBride guarded by Yonescu
01:09:02McBride
01:09:05Five to shoot
01:09:07Collier stood up
01:09:08Gets denied again by Stewart
01:09:10Her fifth block
01:09:12Detens! Detens! Detens!
01:09:16Breanna Stewart having an epic game three
01:09:20Detens! Detens!
01:09:21Here's Yonescu
01:09:22Into Stewart
01:09:24Stewart
01:09:25The turnaround rolls off
01:09:26Jones the overboard
01:09:28Puts it down in traffic
01:09:29As she so often does
01:09:32Williams comes up with a steal
01:09:33Her jumper
01:09:35Won't go
01:09:36And Yonescu the board
01:09:39315 to go in the fourth quarter of a swing game three
01:09:4471-69 Minnesota
01:09:47Yonescu has had some space to pull from three
01:09:50Has not
01:09:51Stewart
01:09:52Getting downhill
01:09:54Stewart gets fouled by Collier
01:09:56That'll be number three on Collier
01:09:58The third team foul against Minnesota in this fourth
01:10:01Breanna Stewart is an outstanding defender
01:10:03Doesn't get enough credit for it
01:10:04And it's not just on her player
01:10:06It's the help
01:10:07When she comes over
01:10:08Another block
01:10:10Hands high
01:10:11Swarms
01:10:12Just takes up space
01:10:13The high five
01:10:14We've got a good one once again here at the Target Center
01:10:19Well Breanna Stewart the only member of the Liberty who scored in this fourth
01:10:26She has 22 second half points
01:10:28I mean she has been everywhere whether on the offensive or defensive ends
01:10:32We've talked about her versatility at 6'4
01:10:35Steps in at mid range
01:10:36Can do it with her back to the basket
01:10:39Her ability to close out with her length on the defensive end
01:10:43Then use her length on the offensive end
01:10:46And just the relentless nature with which she plays
01:10:51Making things hard here in the fourth quarter
01:10:53And then saying we are not going to blanking lose this game
01:10:58If it's up to Breanna Stewart the New York Liberty certainly will not
01:11:0430 points, 10 rebounds, 4 blocks
01:11:06They did not give her credit for what initially looked like her fifth
01:11:11Three minutes to go in the fourth quarter of Game 3
01:11:14A 1-1 series
01:11:16Minnesota 71-69 lead
01:11:19Sandalocini in now for Hines Allen to provide more spacing on the offensive end
01:11:24Here's Ionescu
01:11:26Ionescu
01:11:30Looking for help
01:11:32Into the corner 5 to shoot
01:11:34Jones puts it down again
01:11:36Jones in traffic 2 to shoot
01:11:38She's got to do something
01:11:40And instead just lets the shot clock expire
01:11:42Ryan that was so smart of the piece of Collier
01:11:44What have we seen her do all series long?
01:11:45Go in and get the jump ball
01:11:47She doesn't hear
01:11:49She's aware
01:11:50She gets the deflection
01:11:51But she's aware of the time on the shot clock
01:11:53Reaching but not going for the jump ball
01:11:56Very smart from Collier
01:11:59And Jones needed to make something happen
01:12:01New York now with 18 turnovers
01:12:06Minnesota by 2
01:12:082.30 to go in the fourth
01:12:11Williams with 6 to shoot
01:12:13Williams with 6 to shoot
01:12:15Williams gets it to go
01:12:20Don hopping up and down
01:12:22So is Target Center
01:12:24Phoebe's back in after the hard screen
01:12:29Jones they need it
01:12:31They've got it
01:12:33One point game
01:12:38These finals have been simply sensational
01:12:43Under 2 minutes to go
01:12:46In game 3
01:12:48Collier turns, dishes
01:12:51Zandalicini gives it back
01:12:53Collier can't hit
01:12:55New York can jump in front
01:12:56Defense!
01:12:57Defense!
01:12:58Defense!
01:13:00Defense!
01:13:01Defense!
01:13:03Defense!
01:13:04Defense!
01:13:05Defense!
01:13:06Defense!
01:13:07Defense!
01:13:08Defense!
01:13:09Defense!
01:13:10Defense!
01:13:11Defense!
01:13:12Defense!
01:13:13Defense!
01:13:14Defense!
01:13:15Defense!
01:13:16Defense!
01:13:17Defense!
01:13:18Defense!
01:13:19Defense!
01:13:20Defense!
01:13:21Defense!
01:13:22Defense!
01:13:23Defense!
01:13:24Defense!
01:13:25Defense!
01:13:261.15 to go, McBride, no on the scoop, Stewart the rebound for 11.
01:13:38Defense, defense, defense, defense, defense, defense, defense, defense, defense, defense,
01:13:49Yonescu, a three, Cupid!
01:14:02Much like the end of game two in that fourth quarter when New York needed stops, they have
01:14:10gotten stops here on the defensive end, and then they have come the other way and hit
01:14:16big shots, including this one behind the screen, the switch is there, tough shot, but she drains
01:14:24it.
01:14:33Sabrina Yonescu talked to us about being judicious with her field goal attempts in game two, took
01:14:40just one second half shot, but was a plus 20 in the game and said, I took note of that
01:14:45and I thought, I hope there's a young girl out there who sees, you don't need to shoot
01:14:50to make an impact on the game.
01:14:52She's also been selective here tonight, but hits the biggest shot of the evening there
01:14:57to put New York up four.
01:14:59Taking a look at the upcoming WNBA final schedule, game four on ESPN, Friday night, 8 Eastern.
01:15:05If there's a game five back at Barclays, that would be Sunday on ESPN at 8.
01:15:10If you look for more on these games, go to WNBA.com or visit the WNBA app.
01:15:15An incredible comeback from New York.
01:15:17They lead by four.
01:15:18How about Minnesota and where they look to go offensively here in response?
01:15:22I think they have a number of options.
01:15:23Of course, Courtney Williams can create, as can Kayla McBride.
01:15:27Any action that involves the Fisa Collier is always good as well.
01:15:31They cannot overstate enough the impact of the injury to Alana Smith, as well as the foul
01:15:37trouble for Minnesota.
01:15:41And a foul here on Jonquo Jones.
01:15:44Smart play from Collier.
01:15:46New York had one to give.
01:15:52Now Minnesota will be in the bonus.
01:15:58Sandilacini day inbound.
01:16:00Gets it into McBride.
01:16:05Here is Carlton.
01:16:07Seven to shoot.
01:16:08Carlton on the run.
01:16:10Scoops it in.
01:16:11What a bucket from Bridget Carlton.
01:16:14And now New York wants a timeout.
01:16:17Two-point game.
01:16:24We talked about how important Bridget Carlton is to this team when she has an aggressive
01:16:29mindset on the offensive end of the floor.
01:16:31They were looking for an Fisa cutting.
01:16:33Wasn't there.
01:16:34Carlton just driving on Stewart.
01:16:37So important for her to get her shoulder into Stewart because Stewart is a shot blocker
01:16:42that did not give her, Stewart, the space to get the block.
01:16:46Carlton with 14 points here in game three.
01:16:48Let's listen in to Sandy Brondello.
01:16:50Do it.
01:16:51Do it.
01:16:51Curl it.
01:16:52Come and back.
01:16:53Okay.
01:16:54You're going to come off it.
01:16:55Don't give it back.
01:16:56Wait.
01:16:56Wait.
01:16:57Wait.
01:16:57Space.
01:16:58Space.
01:16:59Okay.
01:17:00Okay.
01:17:00Then what you're going to do is you're going to dribble them out.
01:17:03You're going to come up.
01:17:04Ghost it out.
01:17:05Ghost it out means sprint into like you're going to set a screen and then get out of there.
01:17:35Before you actually set the screen.
01:17:37So look for Brianna Stewart to get the ball in her hands and see the action around her.
01:17:43Brianna Stewart has been incredible here in game three.
01:17:4730 points.
01:17:4711 rebounds.
01:17:48Four blocks.
01:17:49Meanwhile, Minnesota can play straight up defense here.
01:17:5210-second difference game and shot clock.
01:17:54They have a foul to give.
01:17:56Everybody.
01:17:57Defense.
01:17:59Ionescu.
01:18:00New York's had trouble with inbounds in this series.
01:18:03Gets it into Stewart.
01:18:04Stewart twisting away.
01:18:06Here comes the trap.
01:18:08Stewart evades.
01:18:09Stewart finds Ionescu.
01:18:11Her three.
01:18:13In and out.
01:18:14Rebound Williams.
01:18:16Timeout Minnesota.
01:18:17The attempt on line, halfway down, pops out, and now Minnesota can tie it or take the lead.
01:18:36Brianna Stewart had the basketball in her hands.
01:18:39Sabrina Ionescu had ghosted.
01:18:40Then Stewie dribbled, penetrated.
01:18:42Great look for Sabrina.
01:18:44Really good recovery from McBride as well.
01:18:48And look at the box outs inside.
01:18:50Look at those box outs.
01:18:52And Courtney Williams just attacking the boards.
01:18:59All right, Rebecca.
01:19:01I mean, come on.
01:19:03How fun have these finals been?
01:19:04Just incredible.
01:19:06Minnesota basketball in a swing game three, down to 20.6 seconds to go.
01:19:11Where do you go here if you're the Lynx?
01:19:13They've got options, which is the best part of it for Minnesota.
01:19:16We talked about Courtney Williams being the best one-on-one creators when she can get to her hot zone.
01:19:20That kill spot right around 10 or 12 feet.
01:19:23Anything involving Nafisa Collier, including off of the dribble, trying to attack.
01:19:27Maybe you force New York into a foul.
01:19:30Put yourself at the free throw line.
01:19:31Kayla McBride is another one, of course, who can create and get a shot up quickly.
01:19:36McBride with 19 tonight.
01:19:38Collier with 20.
01:19:39Williams with 12 points, 8 assists, and 5 boards.
01:19:43Collier will trigger her in.
01:19:45Hinds Allen out there with Carlton as well.
01:19:47Lindsay Whalen nervous for her former team.
01:19:50Minnesota basketball down to 20.6 to go.
01:19:54Here's Collier darting inside.
01:19:56Collier fading.
01:19:58Can't get it to go, but gets fouled by Jones.
01:20:01Jones, and free throws coming for Nafisa Collier, 80% from the line on the season.
01:20:08Minnesota has liked getting the ball to Collier and letting her dribble penetrate on the left side.
01:20:14Just does a really good job, Ryan.
01:20:16Leaning in to get the foul called.
01:20:18Fake foul.
01:20:20Opportunity to tie it.
01:20:21She's one for two tonight.
01:20:23Hits the first.
01:20:2616 seconds to go.
01:20:28This free throw to tie game three.
01:20:39Tie game.
01:20:40What a response from the Lynx after the Ionescu three.
01:21:01Carlton layup.
01:21:03A stop.
01:21:04And then Collier draws the foul.
01:21:06It's both free throws.
01:21:07Four straight from Minnesota, and the game is tied at 77 with 16 seconds to go.
01:21:14And remember, Minnesota does still have a foul to give.
01:21:18Let's take a listen in to Sandy Brondello.
01:21:19Okay, now, JJ, wait for about eight seconds.
01:21:23Okay?
01:21:24You don't want to be stationary, but they're going to get into you.
01:21:27Okay, so you've got to be smart.
01:21:29Now, you're going to come up.
01:21:31Stop moving.
01:21:32And then go.
01:21:34Go down to the other side.
01:21:36Here's Sandy Brondello saying they're going to foul.
01:21:48They have one to give.
01:21:49Remember, too, Minnesota still has its reset timeout.
01:21:52Don't want to go too early here.
01:21:54Shot clock turned off.
01:21:55And if Minnesota got the board, they could quick use their reset to advance the basketball.
01:21:59Yeah, that's the number one thing for the New York Liberty is to make sure you take the last shot of the game.
01:22:05It's been Brianna Stewart's night.
01:22:08Tie game.
01:22:1077 all.
01:22:1116 seconds remaining in the fourth quarter of game three.
01:22:15Here is Steven.
01:22:16Back to Ionescu.
01:22:19McBride trying to give the foul and does.
01:22:21With 10.9 to go in this fourth.
01:22:29Should New York have trouble with the inbound, they still have their reset.
01:22:34And to Feebish.
01:22:36Eight seconds remaining in the fourth quarter of game three.
01:22:40Four seconds.
01:22:41Ionescu will heave.
01:22:43And hit.
01:22:44And hit.
01:22:47Sabrina Ionescu with the biggest shot in Liberty history.
01:22:5680-77 New York in front on a logo bomb.
01:23:04Minnesota uses the reset.
01:23:07A chance to answer with one second remaining.
01:23:10Williams has to get it in.
01:23:16McBride gets it off.
01:23:18That is it.
01:23:20What a comeback from the New York Liberty.
01:23:26They are one win away from their very first WNBA championship.
01:23:33What an incredible shot by Sabrina Ionescu.
01:23:40There is action.
01:23:41But the whole time it's just let her have the basketball.
01:23:46Let the clock wind.
01:23:49And then go ahead and take a tough one, Sabrina.
01:23:51You've made them all season long.
01:23:54What a deep, incredible shot from Sabrina Ionescu.
01:23:58The New York Liberty take a 2-1 series lead in these best of five WNBA finals
01:24:09on that epic shot from Sabrina Ionescu, who is with Holly Rowe.
01:24:16Sabrina, you're looking up into the stands, looking at your family,
01:24:19the emotion on your face.
01:24:21How do you describe the feeling when you saw that go through?
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