Ionescu and Stewart lead New York to a decisive victory over the Aces.
The New York Liberty are the 2026 WNBA Commissioner's Cup champions after a dominant performance against the . Led by the dynamic duo of Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, the Liberty showcased their depth and talent in a game that highlighted their potential for a deep playoff run. The Liberty's victory was a team effort, but Ionescu and Stewart were the undisputed stars.
Ionescu's playmaking and three-point shooting stretched the Aces' defense, while Stewart's versatility and scoring prowess were on full display. Together, they combined for 45 points, 15 rebounds, and 10 assists, overwhelming the Aces' defense and securing the Cup. The Commissioner's Cup, a mid-season tournament introduced in 2021, has quickly become a coveted trophy in the WNBA.
This year's final, held on August 15, 2026, was a highly anticipated matchup between two of the league's top teams. The Liberty's win not only adds a prestigious title to their resume but also serves as a statement of their strength and cohesion as a unit. Beyond the individual brilliance of Ionescu and Stewart, the Liberty's bench played a crucial role in maintaining the team's momentum.
Reserves such as Betnijah Laney and Natasha Howard provided key scoring bursts and defensive stops, ensuring the Aces couldn't mount a sustained comeback. This depth has been a hallmark of the Liberty's season, and it was on full display in the Cup final, underscoring their ability to outlast opponents in high-pressure games. The Aces, despite their loss, remain a formidable force in the league.
A'ja Wilson and Kelsey Plum, though contained by the Liberty's defense, demonstrated flashes of the dominance that has defined their season. The Aces' inability to consistently convert in the paint and their struggles from beyond the arc were uncharacteristic, suggesting that this defeat may serve as a wake-up call rather than a long-term setback. The rivalry between these two teams is far from over, and their next meeting promises to be a must-watch event.
"This is a huge win for us," said Ionescu in the post-game press conference. "We've been working hard all season, and to come out on top against a team like the Aces is a testament to our team's resilience and talent. " Stewart echoed her teammate's sentiments, adding, "Winning the Commissioner's Cup is a great achievement, but we know there's still a lot of basketball left to be played.
" The Liberty's victory also highlights the growing strength of the WNBA, which has seen a significant increase in popularity and competitiveness over the past few years. The Commissioner's Cup has become a key milestone in the league's schedule, offering a unique opportunity for teams to showcase their skills and gain valuable experience. As the Liberty look to build on this momentum, they will face stiff competition from other top teams, including the Aces, the Seattle Storm, and the Chicago Sky.
The Liberty's win also has significant implications for the WNBA playoff picture. With the regular season's final stretch approaching, the Liberty's position as a top playoff seed is all but secured. However, the Aces' loss may have opened the door for other teams to make a push for the top spot.
The final weeks of the regular season are shaping up to be a thrilling conclusion to the first half of the season. What's next: The Liberty will look to carry this momentum into the regular season's final stretch, aiming to secure a top playoff seed. The Aces, meanwhile, will regroup and focus on maintaining their position at the top of the league standings.
Both teams remain strong contenders for the WNBA championship, and their rivalry is sure to intensify as the season progresses. Read at ESPN
The Commissioner's Cup is a significant mid-season tournament in the WNBA, offering a prestigious title and a substantial prize pool. The Liberty's victory not only highlights their current form but also underscores their potential to challenge for the league championship. With Ionescu and Stewart leading the charge, the Liberty have established themselves as a force to be reckoned with, making this win a pivotal moment in their season.
ESPNespn.comBy ESPN Staff1 Jul, 5:43en
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