LAS VEGAS (AP) — On the verge of elimination, the Aces showed Friday night as the two-time defending WNBA champions they weren't ready to go quietly. Las Vegas took control with a 16-point third-quarter run, held the Liberty without a point over a 7:36 stretch and won 95-81 to cut New York's semifinal series lead to 2-1. The Liberty will get another shot at closing out the Aces on Sunday.
If Las Vegas wins that, a winner-take-all Game 5 will be Tuesday in New York. This was the Aces' 12th consecutive home playoff victory, breaking the WNBA record shared by the Los Angeles Sparks (2001-04) and Sacramento Monarchs (2003-06). Las Vegas finally beat the Liberty for the first this time year.
New York won all three regular-season meetings and the first two games of this series. “This is when team are most dangerous, when their backs are against the wall,” said Breanna Stewart, who led the Liberty with 19 points. “They're going to throw everything at you.
They came out and did what they're supposed to do tonight.” Jackie Young led the Aces with 24 points, Kelsey Plum scored 20 points, A'ja Wilson had 19 points and 14 rebounds, Tiffany Hayes finished with 11 points and Chelsea Gray totaled 10 points and seven assists. The Aces shot 52.
1%, including 40.6% from the 3-point line. Aces coach Becky Hammon took exception after the game at the officiating when it came to Wilson, this season's MVP for the third time.
Wilson has taken 10 free throws in the three games, including two.
