New York Liberty Defend Title Beating Las Vegas Aces 92-78

The New York Liberty opened their 2025 WNBA season with a 92-78 victory over the Las Vegas Aces, celebrating their 2024 championship by raising their first-ever franchise banner and distributing rings before the game. Natasha Cloud led the Liberty with 22 points, nine assists, and six rebounds, while Breanna Stewart added 25 points and eight rebounds, and Jonquel Jones contributed a double-double. Despite A’ja Wilson's dominant 31 points and 16 rebounds for the Aces, Las Vegas struggled offensively, shooting only 34.1% overall and 3-of-14 from three-point range in the first half, allowing New York to build a significant lead. The Liberty's depth and inside scoring, with a 56-32 advantage in points in the paint, proved decisive, as they maintained control despite a late Aces rally. The matchup held added significance given the recent rivalry history, with the Liberty having ended Las Vegas’ title defense in the previous playoffs, and the Aces motivated to spoil New York’s ring night. The game underscored the ongoing competitive tension between two of the WNBA’s top teams and highlighted New York's readiness to defend their championship.