WNBA: New York Liberty blow out Las Vegas Aces in opener

The New York Liberty defeated the Las Vegas Aces 92-78 on Saturday in the season opener, immediately following the unveiling of their 2024 WNBA championship banner.

To the delight of the 17,344-seat sellout crowd, the players were given their championship rings and the banner was hoisted to the rafters of Barclays Center during a 15-minute ceremony prior to the game.

The Liberty capitalized on the momentum and energy from the ceremony to defeat the rival Aces, whom they defeated in the WNBA playoff semifinals the previous season.

PAY ATTENTION: Get N1000 free from Bet9ja

New York led by 14 points at the half, but early in the fourth quarter, Las Vegas closed the gap to 66-64.

After that, Cloud—who joined the Liberty in an offseason trade—started an 8-0 run with back-to-back three-pointers, bringing the score to 74-64 with 5:47 remaining.

Las Vegas' top scorer, A'ja Wilson, finished with 31 points and 16 rebounds.

For the Aces, who were without reserve Crystal Bradford, Jackie Young scored 16 more points.