New York Liberty just completed one of the biggest upset in WNBA Playoff history as they sweep the top seeded Minnesota Lynxs (87 – 71). New York became the first No. 8 seed to eliminate a No. 1 seed in the league’s 30-year history.
The Liberty set the tone early, leading wire-to-wire behind dominant performances from their frontcourt core. Jonquel Jones delivered a monster double-double with 21 points and 13 rebounds, while Breanna Stewart added 21 points to anchor New York’s relentless offense. Sabrina Ionescu chipped in 18 points, orchestrating a balanced attack that kept Minnesota on its heels all evening.
The smile 😭
SA-3️⃣-NA WOULD LIKE A WORDDD 👌 | #LIGHTITUPNYL🗽 pic.twitter.com/qA4rLpFDvh
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) September 30, 2026
OMG STEWIE SAID GET THAT OUTTA HERE ❌ pic.twitter.com/sshJNEzFCJ
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) September 30, 2026
The Lynx, coming off an impressive regular season, struggled to establish momentum against New York’s physical defense. Courtney Williams led Minnesota with 18 points, while Napheesa Collier and Kayla McBride contributed 14 points each. However, Minnesota could not close a late gap after Stewart sank key free throws following a flagrant foul in the second half.
The loss marks a bittersweet moment for the Lynx; despite the early exit, guard Olivia Miles was named Rookie of the Year, and head coach Cheryl Reeve was honored with the Coach of the Year award.
Full Game Highlights;
New York now advances to the WNBA semifinals, awaiting the winner of the Atlanta-Washington series.