The WNBA playoffs second round is all set, and either the Aces or Liberty will not be moving forward. The two top contenders are gearing up to face each other in a rematch of last year’s finals, where the Aces emerged victorious with a 3-1 series win.
Will the fate of the Liberty be the same this time around? They have shown improvements, securing the best record in the WNBA and earning home-court advantage.
The Aces had a slightly underwhelming regular season in 2024 compared to their previous championship-winning years, ending up as the No. 4 seed. However, they still boast MVP A’ja Wilson as they aim for a third consecutive title.
Stay informed with all the details about this year’s 1-vs-4 matchup in the WNBA.
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Liberty vs. Aces prediction
The two standout players in the WNBA will be facing off in this postseason series. A’ja Wilson, who had an exceptional regular season, will be up against Breanna Stewart, the reigning MVP with two championships under her belt.
The winner of this series between the stars will likely be the favorite to compete for a third championship against the winner of the Minnesota-Connecticut matchup.
Jonquel Jones, another former MVP winner, poses a significant challenge for the Aces and has had some impressive outings against them. Sabrina Ionescu is another key player for the Liberty, showcasing the team’s depth in talent.
While the Liberty have maintained their strong form from last season, the Aces have experienced a dip. Winning three titles in a row is no easy feat, and the added fatigue from several players participating in the Olympics might play a factor. The Liberty have excelled in rebounding, which could give them an edge in the series.
Expect a tightly contested series, but with the rebounding advantage and home-court support, the Liberty are predicted to come out on top.
Prediction: Liberty in five
Liberty vs. Aces odds
Check out the series odds from BetMGM:
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Liberty vs. Aces regular season series
New York and Las Vegas faced off three times during the 2024 regular season, with the Liberty sweeping the series 3-0.
June 15: Liberty 90, Aces 82 | Aug. 17: Liberty 79, Aces 67 | Sep. 8: Liberty 75, Aces 71
The Liberty dominated their encounters, with Jonquel Jones particularly shining in the first meeting. The Aces struggled without key players and faced tough defense from New York in subsequent matchups.
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Liberty vs. Aces storyline: Have the Liberty improved enough from last year?
This Liberty squad is markedly different from the one that fell short in the previous finals. They have shown signs of improvement, with additions like rookie Leonie Fiebich making an impact.
Jonquel Jones has elevated her game, earning an All-Star nod and boosting her scoring output. The team’s bench depth has also been enhanced, giving them an edge over the Aces.
All signs point to the Liberty surpassing the Aces this time.
MORE: Why A’ja Wilson didn’t win WNBA MVP in 2023
Liberty vs. Aces schedule
Review the schedule for the upcoming games:
Date | Game | Time (ET) | TV channel | Sunday, Sep. 29 | Game 1 at Liberty | 3 pm | ABC | Tuesday, Oct. 1 | Game 2 at Liberty | TBD | TBD | Friday, Oct. 4 | Game 3 at Aces | 9:30 pm | ESPN 2 | Sunday, Oct. 6 | Game 4 at Aces* | TBD | TBD | Tuesday, Oct. 8 | Game 5 at Liberty* | TBD | ESPN 2
*If necessary
