Liberty’s Ionescu Hilariously Links Stewart’s Free-Throw Mastery to NBA MVP SGA

In a stunning display of skill and composure, the New York Liberty kicked off their season with a perfect 5-0 record, showcasing their potential to reclaim the WNBA title. This momentum was further amplified by their recent 82-77 victory against the Golden State Valkyries, a game that highlighted the exceptional talent of Breanna Stewart.

Stewart, a pivotal force for the Liberty, dominated the court by scoring 27 points, a significant portion of which came from her remarkable proficiency at the free-throw line. She was a staggering 15 for 19 at the charity stripe, a testament to her ability to draw fouls and capitalize on scoring opportunities. Following this impressive performance, her teammate Sabrina Ionescu couldn’t resist making a light-hearted comparison between Stewart’s free-throw prowess and that of NBA MVP Shai Gilgeous-Alexander.

After the game, when Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello was asked if she had ever witnessed a player taking 19 free throws in a single match, Ionescu humorously interjected with a nod to Gilgeous-Alexander, calling out “SGA!” This playful comment drew laughter from the gathered media, highlighting the camaraderie within the Liberty squad. Sources close to the situation noted that the joking reference to Gilgeous-Alexander’s reputation as a “free-throw merchant” added a fun layer to the post-game discourse.

Stewart’s ability to draw fouls has become a hallmark of her game, and it’s not without precedent. The Oklahoma City Thunder’s star has garnered a similar reputation in the NBA for his knack for getting to the line, often being labeled as a “foul baiter.” This comparison not only elevated the mood in the Liberty locker room but also served to underscore Stewart’s elite status in the WNBA.

As reported by www.cbssports.com, Stewart’s performance against the Valkyries was characterized by her relentless drive and strategic play, as she attracted 16 fouls from the opposing team. Coach Brondello’s acknowledgment of this feat further emphasized Stewart’s impact on the game.

The Liberty’s strong start to the season is a promising indicator of their championship aspirations. With Stewart leading the charge, the team is not just relying on her scoring ability but also on her capacity to create opportunities for her teammates. Ionescu’s playmaking skills, combined with Stewart’s scoring, make for a formidable duo that can challenge any team in the league.

The Liberty’s early success has garnered attention, and fans are eager to see how this momentum will carry them through the rest of the season. If Stewart continues to draw fouls at this rate, she could very well find herself at the free-throw line even more often, cementing her place as one of the league’s most dominant players.

With a blend of talent, teamwork, and a touch of humor, the New York Liberty are setting a high bar for the competition. As the season unfolds, it will be interesting to watch how Stewart and Ionescu continue to develop their chemistry on the court, potentially making them a force to be reckoned with in the WNBA once again.