Tuesday, the Chicago Sky entered Madison Square Garden minus the services of Elena Delle Donne, one of the WNBA’s elite, who was sidelined with an ankle injury.
The Liberty recorded their fourteenth (14-6) victory, defeating the Sky 84-63. New York was in a one-possession affair early in the second half. Relying on their trademark defense, Bill Laimbeer’s club weathered the Chicago challenge and proceeded to open a comfortable lead. For the Liberty, it was not a case of assuming the task would be easier with Delle Donne on the sideline. As Laimbeer noted, they had to get away from trying to match the Sky jump shot for jump shot. Just get back and focus on defense, the type allowing Chicago only 68 for a second-half offensive efficiency.
“We take pride in our defense,” Laimbeer said following the victory. “It’s what we’re all about.” It is something the team could fall back on for a night when Tina Charles struggled with four points and 2-of-10 shooting. On her behalf, Charles did grab eight rebounds, and naturally, defended.
That quality of outstanding defense is something seeing the Liberty through what is becoming a special season. Outstanding defense and the effort required, regardless of whom they may face.
The Liberty, in pink uniforms, gather in a pregame huddle:
Lights out for player introductions:
The Madison Square Garden sign notes Monday night was Breast Cancer Awareness Night:
A panoramic view of play on the opposite end, with the Liberty on offense:
A return "home" for Cappie Pondexter, shown here on an inbounds play:
Rutgers coach C. Vivian Stringer had former players on both teams. Here, she greets a few fans:
Only in New York: Kiah Stokes grants a fan's wish by autographing his arm:
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