In Pictures: Breanna Stewart shares candid images of Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones in Game 2 win vs Aces
It was a thrilling finish to Game 2 between the New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces. Breanna Stewart shared candid snaps from the pivotal 88-84 win. From team huddles with Jonquel Jones to an energetic Sabrina Ionescu, the pictures encapsulated the energy inside the arena. Stewart uploaded the images on X, formerly known as Twitter.
The Liberty forward put up 15 points (33.3% shooting), eight assists and seven rebounds to help her team secure the commanding 2-0 lead in the series. They are just one win away from eliminating the defending champions and punching their ticket into the WNBA Finals.
During Game 1 of the series, Breanna Stewart dropped her highest scoring output in the postseason yet with 34 points (63.2% shooting, including 50.0% from beyond the arc).
Breanna Stewart talked about redeeming herself from last year's finals loss
Following the Game 2 victory, Stewart highlighted the journey she took to come back stronger and more equipped this postseason after the 2023 WNBA Finals loss, as per ESPN's Michael Voelpel.
"I think I've just kind of grown from it," Stewart said. "I've had -- unfortunately -- a lot of time to reflect on it, and where can I be better. And how to handle things collectively better.
"But with that, I don't forget who I am and what I can do. ... Last time wasn't my most proudest but I'm going to continue to be better."
Stewart is regarded as one of the best players in the league. However, she acknowledged that she didn't play to the standard that fans are accustomed to seeing from her.
Returning to the finals is within grasp and the Liberty star remains in a good position against the team that crushed their championship dreams last year.
Breanna Stewart talked about the team maintaining the course despite a 2-0 series advantage against Las Vegas
No team playing in the WNBA Playoffs would want to be under a 0-2 hole. It's an empowering feeling to be in the Liberty's position right now but Steward pointed out the team's unchanged mindset, as per High Post Hoops' Joey Mistretta.
"We're hungry," Stewart said. "We just want to continue to be better. We know that tonight we got the win, but it's more than one win to win a series and we're going to be ready on Tuesday."
Stewart and the rest of the Liberty squad continue to remain determined and not complacent.
Aside from being an excellent offensive unit, they have shown their growth this season by making important defensive strides. Compared to how they came out against Las Vegas in last year's finals, New York has looked poised in both games with their collective mindset.