A thrilling start to the 2023 WNBA season unfolded this weekend, as the New York Liberty and the Las Vegas Aces showcased why they are the teams to beat in a two-horse race for the championship.
The New York Liberty charged onto the scene in their home debut Sunday, with a commanding display against the Indiana Fever. With a score of 90-73, the Liberty's win over the Fever was clearer cut than the final score might lead you to believe. Entering the fourth quarter with a formidable 30-point lead, the Liberty took the opportunity to rest their key players, adding a touch of suspense for their backers who had staked on the Liberty as 16.5-point favorites. Despite this, the Liberty managed to cover the spread by just half a point, leaving little doubt about the straight-up result.
The resounding victory was underscored by a stellar performance from Breanna Stewart. Racking up an awe-inspiring 45 points in just three quarters, Stewart broke the franchise record and firmly solidified the Liberty's position in the championship race.
A two-time WNBA champion (2018, 2020), two-time WNBA Finals MVP (2018, 2020), and WNBA MVP (2018), Stewart had earlier in the year made one of the biggest free agent moves in WNBA history. Leaving the Seattle Storm after contributing to two championship victories in seven years, Stewart announced her decision to join the New York Liberty on Twitter, on the first day of the 2023 WNBA free agency period.
"I want to continue to be great," she told Malika Andrews on ESPN's "SportsCenter." "I want to go to the place where I can continue to help this league become better, to continue to raise the standard." Stewart's decision was influenced by a desire to pursue the Liberty's first championship and a belief in the importance of charter air travel for players' health, safety, and performance.
Now a part of the Liberty, Stewart's record-breaking performance sent a clear message to the rest of the league. She, along with other key offseason acquisitions Jonquel Jones and Courtney Vandersloot, have joined forces with Sabrina Ionescu and Betnijah Laney to form a potent ensemble that's attracting attention. This confluence of talent has led to a noticeable reduction in the Liberty's championship odds.
Meanwhile, on the West Coast, the reigning champions Las Vegas Aces also demonstrated their title credentials with an emphatic 105-64 road win against the Seattle Storm in their season debut Saturday. Entering the contest as 13.5-point favorites, the Aces cruised to victory, displaying an array of talent that reinforced belief in their championship odds.
The Aces' opening victory was highlighted by the impressive debut of two-time MVP Candace Parker. Parker's 12 points, four rebounds, five assists, and three blocks showcased her versatile skill set, proving her value on both ends of the court. Her seamless integration into the Aces' system, alongside her legendary status, has placed her and the Aces as a significant challenge to all opposing teams.
Parker's arrival at the Aces had sent shockwaves through the WNBA world during free agency, with many believing the defending champions would be even more formidable than last season. Their 2023 opener only served to reinforce those beliefs.
Now, with Parker's formidable presence adding to the Aces' already strong lineup, the team is set to be a significant force in the 2023 season. Following their dominant start, the Aces, much like the Liberty, have signaled their intentions and cemented their standing in the championship race.
As it stands, the 2023 WNBA Championship odds are as follows:
Las Vegas Aces: +120
New York Liberty: +130
Washington Mystics: 12 to 1
Phoenix Mercury: 32 to 1
Atlanta Dream: 40 to 1
Connecticut Sun: 45 to 1
Chicago Sky: 45 to 1
Dallas Wings: 45 to 1
Minnesota Lynx: 45 to 1
Seattle Storm: 50 to 1
LA Sparks: 60 to 1
Indiana Fever: 100 to 1
With two major contenders in the New York Liberty and the Las Vegas Aces at the helm, the 2023 WNBA season is poised to be a riveting competition. The stage is set for what could be a historic and unforgettable season.
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