Full Breakdown
Liberty Stun Top-Seeded Lynx in Game 1 of 2026 WNBA Playoffs
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Game Summary
In the opening game of the best-of-three first-round series, the eighth-seeded New York Liberty defeated the No. 1 seed Minnesota Lynx 91-75 at the Target Center. Breanna Stewart led the Liberty with a 34-point, 12-rebound double-double, adding six assists, two steals and two blocks while shooting 11-for-18 from the floor and 10-of-12 from the line. The Lynx held a 44-40 halftime lead, but the Liberty outscored them 17-6 in the fourth quarter to seal the win.
Background & Context
The Lynx entered the playoffs as the league’s best regular-season team (26-18) and were seeking their first title since 2017. The Liberty, the 2024 champions, returned as an eighth seed after a season marked by injuries to stars Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones. The two clubs met three times during the regular season, with New York winning two of those contests.
Data & Statistics
- Final score: Liberty 91, Lynx 75.
- Stewart: 34 points, 12 rebounds, 6 assists, 2 steals, 2 blocks; 11-of-18 FG, 10-of-12 FT.
- Lynx leading scorer: Nia Brodie, 16 points in 19 minutes off the bench.
- Liberty’s second-half defense held the Lynx to 31 points in the final 20 minutes.
- Rebounding margin: Liberty out-rebounded the Lynx by 15.
Official Statements & Responses
Liberty head coach Chris DeMarco praised Stewart’s versatility and leadership, noting that her presence “gives us confidence” and that “she’s just everywhere” on the court. Both coaches highlighted the importance of adjustments heading into Game 2, with DeMarco pointing to the Liberty’s defensive intensity and Lynx coach Reeve acknowledging the need to respond.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I was just really ready. If you don't get up for these big moments, then you gotta rethink why you're playing basketball,” — Breanna Stewart
- “The commissioner is wearing a dress with the New York City skyline on it, thinking that's appropriate as an impartial arbiter?” — Maggie Lofboom
Why It Matters
The victory puts the Liberty one win away from becoming the first eighth seed to eliminate a top seed in WNBA history. A Game 2 win in New York would close the series; a Lynx rebound would force a decisive Game 3 in Minneapolis.
What’s Next
Game 2 shifts to New York on Tuesday, offering the Liberty a chance to clinch the series. If the Lynx win, the series returns to Minneapolis for a Thursday showdown that will determine which team advances to the semifinals.