New York City - The first twenty minutes saw the New York Liberty build a 43-28 lead. A fast start has been an emphasis of Liberty coach Bill Laimbeer. Coming against a team on a four game win streak, it was essential.
The Liberty held Washington to 28 points, an efficiency of 74. Solid defense, another Liberty emphasis with Laimbeer was there. Getting stops and forcing turnovers allowed the offense to get in an advantageous position to score. Tina Charles led the way with 19 points hike Avery Warley-Talbert added to the inside effort pulling down 10 boards for the Liberty. Kia Vaughn scored six points, adding seven rebounds for the Mystics. The Liberty's Anna Cruz contributed in ways that do not always enter the box score.
New York enjoyed a 14 point lead with the second quarter clock running down. Ivory Latta of Washington stole the ball and hit a layup with 2.8 seconds to play. It appeared to be a momentum changer for the Mystics. The Liberty inbounded and Alex Montgomery regained momentum lost burying a 48 foot shot a the buzzer.
That shot summed up New York's initial two quarters of good fortune.