The short-handed New York Liberty, led by 24 points from Breanna Stewart, earned an 84-76 victory in Seattle on Friday, preventing the Storm from clinching a spot in the WNBA playoffs.
New York coach Sandy Brondello had an impact on the game late with two successful challenges on calls against the Liberty (25-17). One was a foul called on Stewart, who extended her arm and made contact with Seattle's Erica Wheeler. The referees turned around with 46.8 seconds remaining and the Liberty ahead 78-74.
Stewart went 6-for-6 from the free-throw line on the Liberty's next three possessions to seal the win.
New York star Sabrina Ionescu practiced Friday but missed her fourth game in a row with a toe injury. Despite the Liberty missing their player points and assists leader, deep shooting by Leoni