23 and Bre: Playoff-Bound Liberty Stifle Sky in Historic Win

The New York Liberty's first follow-up to their memorable win over Las Vegas was an uneven but ultimately victorious effort against the Chicago Sky.

NEW YORK-Having clinched a playoff spot on their night off, the New York Liberty once again proved they're equally capable of something great when they're working.

Back in action after Sunday's surprise shellacking of defending champion Las Vegas, the Liberty took down the Chicago Sky at Barclays Center on Friday night by an 89-73 final. With the win, the Liberty (23-6) tied the franchise's single-season mark for most wins in franchise history, which they share with the 2015 edition for the time being. 

Breanna Stewart led the way with a 21-point, 12-rebound double-double, kept well-fed all night thanks to a distribution effort that saw all five New York starters dish out at least three assists. Sabrina Ionescu had a game-best eight helpers while building up a 19-point haul with five triples. 

Friday's win also allowed the Liberty to avenge Chicago's comeback from a 19-point deficit on June 4. Alanna Smith led the visitors with 19 points in defeat while Courtney Williams had a serendipitous double-double with 10 points and rebounds each. New York held Chicago's main attraction Kahleah Copper to eight points on nine attempts from the field, also keeping the All-Star in foul trouble throughout the night.

One more meeting with the Sky (12-17) awaits the Liberty, who travel to the Windy City on Sept. 3.

In the meantime, the Liberty now embark upon a six-game road trip, which includes next week's Commissioner's Cup final in Sin City. Game one comes against the Indiana Fever on Sunday afternoon (3 p.m. ET, ESPN).

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Geoff Magliocchetti is on Twitter @GeoffJMags

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