The New York Liberty clinched their first-ever WNBA Championship on Sunday night, securing a hard-fought 67-62 overtime victory against the Minnesota Lynx. The thrilling win marked a historic moment for the franchise, and Jonquel Jones earned the 2024 Finals MVP for her outstanding performances throughout the series.
Jones, a seasoned player in her seventh WNBA season, averaged 17.8 points and 7.6 rebounds while shooting an impressive 56 percent from the field during the Finals. In Game 5, she delivered a crucial performance, finishing with 17 points, six rebounds, and one assist to propel the Liberty to the title.
The Los Angeles Sparks drafted the 30-year-old Bahamian forward in 2016 before trading her to the Connecticut Sun as the No. 6 overall pick. Her MVP award adds another prestigious honor to her career, which already includes the 2017 Most Improved Player award, 2018 Sixth Woman of the Year, and the 2021 MVP title.
Jones fought back tears while accepting the Finals MVP trophy from WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert. “Y’all know my story, y’all know how many times I’ve been denied it, but it was delayed, that’s all it was,” she said, visibly emotional. “I’m so happy to do it here.”
While her teammates, Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, faced shooting struggles in Game 5, Jones stepped up to lead her team to victory. Ionescu had a tough night, shooting just 1-of-19 with five points, eight assists, and seven rebounds. Stewart added 13 points and 15 rebounds but shot only 4-of-15 from the field.
Jones’ stellar performance was crucial in the Liberty’s overtime victory, cementing her place as a leader on a team that has finally reached the pinnacle of WNBA success.
