Liberty Vs Aces: Top Players The Game Has Ever Seen, Says Ionescu

Sabrina Ionescu guided the New York Liberty to an 87-76 win over the Las Vegas Aces at Michelob Ultra Arena, ending a two-game losing streak and setting the stage for another high-profile meeting between the teams, with both now sitting second in their conferences ahead of the Commissioner’s Cup final on June 30 in New York.

The 28-year-old guard produced 16 points and 10 assists, securing a first double-double of the 2026 season after an injury-disrupted start, as Ionescu has appeared in only six games so far because of foot and back problems, yet the recent performance suggested growing sharpness and renewed confidence in competitive action.

With Breanna Stewart scoring 20 points for the Liberty, and Jackie Young replying with 19 for the Aces, supported by A'ja Wilson and Ionescu on 16 points each, the contest again underlined the attacking strength on both rosters, featuring multiple All-Stars who have shaped the WNBA landscape in recent seasons.

Reflecting on the level on display, Ionescu highlighted how this fixture has become a showcase of elite talent, stating: "[The matchup] is always a great basketball game being played... some of the best players the game has ever seen on the court." That view matched the wider feeling that Liberty versus Aces games attract strong attention around the league.

The teams will meet again on June 30 in the Commissioner’s Cup final in New York, a competition both already know how to win, as the Liberty lifted the Cup in 2023 and the Aces captured the trophy in 2022, while Las Vegas also collected the WNBA championship in three of the past four seasons, with the Liberty interrupting that run in 2024.

After the game, Ionescu placed the clash in a wider context for the league, saying: "Two of the best organisations in our league, Ionescu said. [The Aces] have continued to pave the way in what they've done, contending every single year, winning multiple championships." The comments reflected mutual respect between two franchises used to playing on major stages.

The guard also spoke about personal progress following recent injuries, explaining: "I'm just better and better every day, added Ionescu. My body's feeling better, getting back into the rhythm of playing competitive basketball." That steady improvement could be significant for the Liberty as the franchise prepares for further meetings with the Aces in high-pressure situations.