:format(webp)/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/14354087/dscn2788.0.jpg)
NEWARK, NJ - Once again they had to work a little extra against the Indiana Fever on Wednesday.
The New York Liberty battled back from a 16 point deficit to defeat the Fever, 75-68 in overtime in a matinee game at the Prudential Center.
Possessions, efficiency and key factors
Possessions:
Indiana 86
NY Liberty 81
Offensive Efficiency:
Tulsa 79
NY Liberty 93
The Four Factors:
|
eFG |
FT Rate |
OREB PCT |
TO Rate |
|
|
Indiana |
40 |
20 |
24 |
20 |
|
NY Liberty |
51 |
58 |
16 |
26 |
The story here was defense. After a slow start, the Liberty stopped penetration while doing a much better job of contesting perimeter looks. They do not force turnovers as Indiana's rate was 20%, a cutoff figure for caring for the ball (above 20% is unacceptable). The Liberty imposed their defensive will forcing the Fever into a 40% eFG percentage while holding them to an offensive efficiency of 79. An outstanding number put up or should we say allowed, by Bill Laimbeer's club.
Turnovers, as Laimbeer noted in the post game presser, are still a problem. Getting to the line with the free throw rate (FTA/FGA) of 58 was impressive. Consider also the fact New York was beaten on the offensive boards. Getting offensive rebounds usually enhances your chances to get to the line. The Liberty, to their credit, was able to do so (visit the charity stripe) relying mainly on their primary offense.
The efficiency numbers of note (using the NBA model):
|
Points |
Efficiency |
|
|
E. Carson, NY |
21 |
23 |
|
A. Montgomery, NY |
13 |
18 |
|
T. Catchings, Ind. |
21 |
16 |
Carson and Catchings tied for game-high scoring honors. Carson shot 8 of 12 adding six rebounds with four turnovers as arguably her lone negative. Catchings had only one turnover. She had a good all around day with 5 steals, 4 assists and (a game high) 8 rebounds. A 7-for-20 shooting mark hampered Catchings' final efficiency.
Alex Montgomery scored 13 points but, more important, came up big for the Liberty in the stretch and overtime. Montgomery posted a second best efficiency based on 5 of 9 shooting, 7 boards and no turnovers. That last figure had to be especially pleasing to coach Laimbeer.
Final Numbers:
- The Liberty improved to 2-1, both wins at home in overtime. Indiana is now 1-2.
- Attendance :7,617