In a thrilling start to the 2024 WNBA playoffs, the top-seeded New York Liberty and the two-time defending champions, the Las Vegas Aces, both showcased their championship caliber, sweeping their first-round opponents with stunning performances.

The New York Liberty took their first step in the quest for the title with a decisive 91-82 victory over the eighth-seeded Atlanta Dream at Barclays Center. This win was expected, as the Liberty had previously bested the Dream in three of their four regular-season encounters. They had already set the tone with an impressive 83-69 win in Game 1, proving their dominance early on.

Despite the anticipated outcome, the Dream made it a hard-fought battle. They started strong, securing a double-digit lead in the first half thanks to Allisha Gray's three-point shooting. However, the Liberty regrouped, reclaimed the lead in the second quarter, and engaged in a fierce back-and-forth contest during the second half. Ultimately, New York's arsenal of talent proved too much for Atlanta.

Sabrina Ionescu was simply sensational, delivering a stunning performance with 36 points, nine assists, and three steals on 52% shooting from the floor, including five three-pointers. Her pivotal back-to-back threes in the fourth quarter swung momentum in favor of the Liberty, followed by a clutch assist to Leonie Fiebich, who converted an important and-one play to solidify their lead.

Joining her in the spotlight was Jonquel Jones, who recorded a double-double with 20 points and 13 rebounds, alongside Breanna Stewart with 13 points and six rebounds. The Dream fought valiantly, with Allisha Gray's impressive 26-point outing and Rhyne Howard contributing 19 points, but it wasn't enough as the Liberty closed out the game, sealing their progression with Ionescu earning MVP chants from the adoring crowd.

In the other game of the day, the Las Vegas Aces continued their pursuit of a historic third consecutive championship title by defeating the Seattle Storm 83-76, sweeping their series as well. This victory sets the stage for an exciting semi-final clash against the New York Liberty.

A'ja Wilson, the 2024 WNBA MVP, led the Aces with an impressive 24 points and 13 rebounds, supported by Kelsey Plum, who erupted for a game-high 29 points. The duo's experience proved pivotal in a closely contested matchup. Jackie Young and Chelsea Gray bolstered the scoreline with 21 combined points, ensuring the Aces' advancement to the next round.

Meanwhile, the Storm's efforts to extend their playoff run fell short, despite valiant contributions from Gabby Williams, who scored 20 points, and Nneka Ogwumike, who added 16 points and 10 rebounds. However, star player Jewell Loyd struggled, finishing with just nine points compared to her regular-season average of nearly 20 points per game.

As we look ahead to the semi-finals, the stage is set for a gripping showdown between the Liberty and the Aces, promising to be a clash of titans as both teams vie for a coveted spot in the finals of the WNBA playoffs. Stay tuned for what promises to be an electrifying round of basketball!