Liberty fined $25,000 for violating media policy after loss to Aces

The New York Liberty were fined $25,000 for violating the league’s postgame media access policies after their loss in the WNBA Finals on Wednesday night, as announced by the league on Thursday.

In addition, Liberty players Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Betnijah Laney each received fines of $2,000 for not being available for postgame interviews.

Following their 70-69 loss to the Las Vegas Aces at the Barclays Center, Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello and stars Breanna Stewart and Courtney Vandersloot answered questions from reporters for about 10 minutes at the podium. However, after these interviews, a Liberty team spokesperson informed the media that no further players would be available.

According to WNBA policy, any additional players requested by the media in person must be made available for interviews in an alternate location after the traditional news conference. The Liberty violated this policy by not making Ionescu, Jones, Laney, or other players available.

Although the Liberty built a double-digit lead in the second half of Game 4 on Wednesday night, they were unable to maintain it and ultimately lost to the Aces by a single point. Despite making it to the Finals five times, the Liberty have yet to secure a WNBA title in franchise history.

Courtney Vandersloot led the Liberty in scoring with 19 points and seven rebounds during the loss. Breanna Stewart recorded 10 points and 14 rebounds, but struggled with a 3-of-17 shooting performance. Betnijah Laney contributed 15 points, and Sabrina Ionescu added 13 points.

A’ja Wilson, who was named the WNBA Finals MVP, had an outstanding performance of 24 points and 16 rebounds for the Aces. The Aces, who were missing starters Kiah Stokes and Chelsea Gray due to injuries, also received 16 points and seven assists from Jackie Young. They are now only the third team in history to win consecutive titles, and the first since 2002.