Stat Analysis: Liberty earn a split

NEWARK, NJ - The New York Liberty spilt in the two most recent games following a West Coast trip.

Again, it comes down to optimism. You can simply say it was a split - one out of two - or one can proclaim the Liberty on a one game win streak.

No matter the outlook, Saturday's win over Washington was vital.

Here is a look at the statistical breakdown of the two contests. On Tuesday, the Liberty dropped a 76-63 decision to Indiana at the Rock.

The Liberty shot well and rebounded better than most nights out. The free throw rate and turnovers, however, really stood out. Using free throws attempted divided by field goals tried, the disparity is glaringly evident. Indiana went to the line for 21 attempts, the Liberty three.

In the turnover category, the Fever had only eight while New York was guilty of 21 for the 28 percent turnover rate. Despite a 35-25 edge in total rebounds the damage was done with the turnovers totaling nearly one of every three possessions.

Tamika catchings of the Fever led all scorers with 22 points.

On Saturday, Essence Carson, who tied Cappie Pondexter for Liberty scoring honors on Thursday with 18 points, led the way with 20 in a hard fought 79-73 victory over the Washington Mystics. Pondexter added 16 while Washington was paced by Monique Currie with 20 points and Crystal Langhorne (19).

The numbers of note:

Very close to the Indiana game from a possession/pace stand point. The big difference was the efficiency. The Liberty offense was much improved as was the defense. A quick glance at the turnover column tells a major part of the story. New York was above average in caring for the ball while the Mystics, now losers of five straight, were not. Quite a significant difference from the meeting with Indiana. A difference that had a bearing on an outcome rendering the Liberty victorious.

The Liberty were out rebounded and did not get to the line as much. Still, the latter area was improved contrasted with the game two nights prior with Indiana. In the end, any rebounding and/or free throw deficiencies were offset by an offense that committed only 11 turnovers and a defense forcing 17.

Next up for the Liberty is a week of games in the confines of the Rock. On Wednesday, New York hosts Phoenix, while Chicago and Los Angeles visit Friday and Sunday, respectively.