WNBA Finals 2023: Schedule, results, news and highlights

This wasn’t even close. The Las Vegas Aces had a remarkable performance in the first quarter of the WNBA Finals, scoring 38 points and setting a new record for the most points in the opening period. They continued their dominance throughout the game, securing a convincing 104-76 victory over the New York Liberty. With this win, the Aces now hold a commanding 2-0 lead in the series.

Next up, the series moves to Barclays Center for Game 3 on Sunday at 3 p.m. ET, which is undoubtedly a must-win game for the Liberty.

It’s important to note that no team in the history of the league has ever come back from a 2-0 deficit to win a five-game WNBA Finals. The odds are certainly stacked against the Liberty.

The Aces’ star player, A’ja Wilson, had an outstanding game, finishing with 26 points and 15 rebounds. This achievement puts her in an elite group as only the third player in Finals history to record at least 25 points and 15 rebounds in a single game.

In addition to Wilson, Jackie Young contributed 24 points and Kelsey Plum scored 23 points, making the Aces the first team in WNBA history to have three players score 20 or more points in multiple Finals games.

Although New York managed to briefly cut the lead to single digits in the third quarter, Las Vegas quickly regained control and extended their lead once again.

Leading up to the WNBA Finals, fans and experts had predicted a showdown between the Aces and the Liberty, envisioning a battle between two superteams for the 2023 title. This is the Liberty’s first appearance in the Finals in 21 years, while the Aces are aiming to become the first team since the Los Angeles Sparks in 2002 to win back-to-back championships. It is worth noting that the Aces were the top seed in 2022 when they won their first championship.

For all the latest news, analysis, and highlights of the Finals, keep yourself updated with the information below.

WNBA Finals

Game 1: At Las Vegas 99, New York 82
Game 2: At Las Vegas 104, New York 76
Game 3: Las Vegas at New York, Sunday, Oct. 15 (3 p.m. ET, ABC)
Game 4*: Las Vegas at New York, Wednesday, Oct. 18 (8 p.m. ET, ESPN)
Game 5*: New York at Las Vegas, Friday, Oct. 20 (9 p.m. ET, ESPN)

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Game 2: Las Vegas 104, New York 76

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Voepel: Inside the first quarter that put Las Vegas one win away from a repeat

Las Vegas now has a commanding 2-0 lead after an astonishing first quarter performance. They made seven of their first nine shots, including four 3-pointers, and set a new WNBA Finals record by scoring 38 points in the opening period. Michael Voepel delves into the details of this historic quarter in his article.

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Leaders

Points: A’ja Wilson, 26 points

Rebounds: A’ja Wilson, 15 rebounds

Assists: Chelsea Gray, 11 assists

For the complete box score and highlights of Game 2, click here.

Game 1: Las Vegas 99, New York 82

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Philippou: How the Aces took a 1-0 lead over the Liberty in WNBA Finals

Las Vegas seized control of Game 1, ultimately emerging victorious with a 99-82 win over the Liberty. In her article, Alexa Philippou analyzes what went wrong for New York and the adjustments made by Las Vegas that led to their triumph. The Aces’ strong defensive play and guard performance were key factors in their victory.

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Leaders

Points: Kelsey Plum, Las Vegas — 26; Jackie Young, Las Vegas — 26

Rebounds: Jonquel Jones, New York — 10

Assists: Chelsea Gray, Las Vegas — 9

To view the box score and highlights of Game 1, click here.