In a thrilling 82–77 victory over the Golden State Valkyries, the New York Liberty extended their unbeaten streak to 5–0, showcasing their dominance in the WNBA’s 2025 season. The game, however, wasn’t just about the scoreboard; it was a stage for Breanna Stewart’s relentless attack and Sabrina Ionescu’s quick wit, which stole the spotlight during the post-game press conference. Stewart’s remarkable ability to draw 16 fouls, leading to 19 free-throw attempts, prompted a hilarious quip from Ionescu that had the media room buzzing with laughter.
The Liberty’s hard-fought win highlighted Stewart’s commanding presence on the court. Known for her versatility and clutch performances, the two-time WNBA MVP turned the game into a masterclass in drawing contact. Her 16 fouls drawn were a testament to her aggressive drives and savvy positioning, forcing the Valkyries’ defense into constant foul trouble. Stewart’s performance wasn’t just about physicality; it was a strategic dismantling of the opposition, as she capitalized on her trips to the free-throw line to keep the Liberty ahead in a tight contest. Her ability to draw fouls was so extraordinary that it became the focal point of post-game discussions.
Enter Sabrina Ionescu, the Liberty’s sharpshooting guard and resident comedian. During the press conference, head coach Sandy Brondello was asked by reporter Lucas Kaplan if she had ever seen a player draw as many fouls as Stewart did that night. Before Brondello could respond, Ionescu leaned into the microphone and whispered, “SGA,” referencing NBA star Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, known for his knack for earning free throws. The room erupted in laughter as Ionescu quickly added, “Just kidding,” but the jab was already a viral moment. The comparison to SGA, often dubbed a “free-throw merchant” for his frequent trips to the line, was a playful nod to Stewart’s dominant night
Ionescu’s humor underscores the camaraderie between the Liberty’s stars, who have built a strong bond both on and off the court. Their chemistry has been a driving force behind the team’s success, including their 2024 WNBA championship run. Stewart and Ionescu, who joined forces in 2023, have become one of the league’s most formidable duos, blending Stewart’s midrange dominance with Ionescu’s long-range shooting. Their ability to balance intense competition with lighthearted moments like this one highlights the team’s cohesion, a key factor in their early-season dominance.
The game itself was a testament to the Liberty’s resilience. Despite facing rebounding challenges and a potential “trap game” against the expansion Valkyries, Stewart’s performance ensured they stayed unbeaten. Ionescu herself contributed significantly, praising Stewart as “one of the greatest basketball players ever” for her ability to take over when it mattered most. The SGA quip, shared widely on platforms like X, added a layer of levity to an otherwise intense night, reminding fans why the Liberty are not just champions but also one of the WNBA’s most entertaining teams.
As the Liberty gear up for their title defense, moments like these showcase their ability to blend elite performance with personality. With Stewart drawing fouls and Ionescu dropping one-liners, New York remains a force to be reckoned with—both on the scoreboard and in the headlines.
