Breanna Stewart and the New York Liberty are looking to change their luck on Friday against the Portland Fire. The Liberty appeared to be on their way to a third straight win to start the new season, but they fell to the Fire after giving up late points in the final seconds. With the score tied 96-96, Sarah Ashlee Barker ended up scoring a putback buzzer-beater to lift the Fire to a 98-96 win, their first victory since returning to the league.
It has only been three games, but the Liberty’s 24-year-old Pauline Astier has been impressive. Astier, a rookie in her first season, has the opportunity of a lifetime playing alongside legends, and she is making the most of it. She led the team in scoring with 24 points, five rebounds and three assists. In the previous game against the Washington Mystics, she posted 18 points and has consistently made excellent plays. Her intelligence and playmaking have been on full display. Marine Johannes, Jonquel Jones, and Breanna Stewart scored 18, 17 and 16 points, while Betnijah Laney-Hamilton added 10.
One of the main storylines from the game was the turnover trouble the Liberty found themselves in. New York accumulated a total of 18 turnovers, which played a role in the outcome of the game. It’s a quick turnaround as New York looks to get back on track.
As for the Fire, Bridget Carleton’s arrival to Portland has been impressive. Her offensive skill is on full display, as she had a career-high 26 points on 9-of-16 shooting along with four steals. There are still moments of questionable decision-making, but Carleton has been a breath of fresh air for the expansion team. Carleton and the Fire will certainly be in this game, just like they were on Wednesday, and will hope for a similar outcome as well.
New York Liberty vs Portland Fire Injury Reports
New York Liberty Injury Report
The Liberty continue to deal with injury concerns, with Satou Sabally and Sabrina Ionescu listed with foot injuries. Meanwhile, Raquel Carrera and Marine Fauthoux are out due to overseas commitments, and Rebecca Allen is questionable with a leg injury.
Portland Fire Injury Report
As for the Fire, Karlie Samuelson (foot) and Sug Sutton (knee) are ruled out. Carla Leite, who left the game early during Wednesday’s matchup, is listed as questionable with a knee injury.
New York Liberty vs Portland Fire Starting Lineups
New York Liberty Starting Lineup
PG: Marine Johannes, SG: Betnijah Laney-Hamilton, SF: Breanna Stewart, PF: Pauline Astier, C: Jonquel Jones
Portland Fire Starting Lineup
PG: Carla Leite*, SG: Bridget Carleton, SF: Emily Engstler, PF: Nyadiew Puoch, C: Luisa Geiselsoder
Where to watch New York Liberty vs Portland Fire?
The New York Liberty vs. Portland Fire matchup is scheduled to take place at Moda Center at 10 ET. The match will be available on Amazon Prime Video and WWOR (My9), and fans can also watch the game live through WNBA League Pass.
College Sports Network has you covered with the latest news, analysis, insights, and trending stories in college football, men’s college basketball, women’s college basketball, and college baseball!
