Betting Odds & Predictions: Liberty vs Mystics | WNBA Playoffs Game 1
With the 2023 regular season complete, the WNBA Playoffs First Round will continue on Friday, Sept. 15. Eight teams, four of which represent the Eastern and Western Conference, will compete for the WNBA Championship. The First-Round Playoff matchups will include the best of three games played. Followed by the first round are the semi-finals, and then the Finals.
Here, you will find the WNBA betting odds, lines, matchups, and brackets for the WNBA First-Round playoffs between the New York Liberty and the Washington Mystics.
WNBA Game 1 Odds: New York Liberty (2) vs. (7) Washington Mystics
Tomorrow is Game 1 of the WNBA Playoffs Round-Round between the New York Liberty (32-8, 15-5 Home) and the Washington Mystics (19-21, 7-13 Away). The first of three games, the New York Liberty will look to bring their first-ever WNBA title to New York City.
In their third straight playoff appearance, the Liberty finished 8-2 down the stretch. Having lost in the first round the past season seasons, New York will face Washington, who will make their second straight playoff appearance. 2019 WNBA Champions, the Mystics finished 5-5, including a 90-88 victory over the Liberty last game of the season.
In this article, I will break down the WNBA betting odds, statistics, trends, odds, player prop bets, and predictions. The matchup will begin at 7:30 p.m. ET, at the Barclays Center, located in Brooklyn, New York.
If you’re Betting on the WNBA and interested in watching, the game will air on ESPN2. For the best betting odds, stats and analysis, here is information to know.
The New York Liberty proved they were an elite team, finishing with a record of 32-8, and 15-5 at home. After finishing with their best record in franchise history, New York will match up with the 7th seed Washington Mystics at home.
New York, who acquired Jonquel Jones, and signed Breanna Stewart and Courtney Vandersloot in the offseason, have a clear vision of winning a title. With only 5 losses at home, one came against the Washington Mystics, in the final game of the regular season.
Led by head coach Sandy Brondello, the Liberty were outstanding all season. Since the All-Star break, New York finished 18-4, first in the WNBA, and lead in offensive rating (112.2).
In key areas, the Liberty dominated the league in rebounds (38.7), assists (23.9), three-point attempts (31.5), and three-pointers made per game (11.6). Next to the Los Angeles Sparks, New York finished second in three-point percentage (36.9) since the break.
Through the month of August, the Liberty were a league-best 9-1, and led the league in offensive rating, defensive rating, net rating, assist percentage, assists to turnover ratio, and rebound percentage. Their 17.7 net rating through August was the highest of any team, and 12.3 points more than the Aces. The Washington Mystics had a net rating of -4.4 over that time span.
The Washington Mystics
The Washington Mystics remain one of the most intriguing teams in this year’s playoffs. Riddled with Injuries, the Mystic have Elene Delle Donne and Ariel Atkins back in the starting lineup. Washington recently lost Shakira Austin and Kristi Toliver, both to injuries.
The Mystics run a three-guard lineup, which consists of Natasha Cloud, Brittney Sykes, and Ariel Atkins. The three guards account for 40 points and 50 percent of the team’s total offensive. With Delle Donne and Austin playing a combined 50 games, Washington could be a dark horse this year.
The Mystics, led by Eric Thibault, managed to keep up with the Liberty in all four of their matchups. In their last victory, both Austin and Toliver were out, with knee and hip injuries. After a 19-21 record to close out the year, the Mystics were 7-13 in away games. One of the least efficient teams on the rebounds, Washington finished 7th in offensive rating (99.9), and 5th in defensive rating (100.3).
Overall, it’s hard to envision the series split, when the Liberty’s net rating is more than 11 points higher than the Mystics. Since the All-Star break, Washington regressed defensively, sliding to 7th in defensive rating (103). We saw the effect of Elena Delle Donne against Breanna Stewart, in which No. 30 shot 4-17 in their last matchup.
Ariel Atkins, Delle Donne, and Natasha Cloud were all part of the 2019 championship and are no strangers to playoff games. Although I won’t take Washington to win the MoneyLine outright, their health will be the biggest x-factor.
Season Matchups
The season series is split 2-2 between the New York Liberty and the Washington Mystics. In four matchups against Washington, New York averaged 84.3 points, and shot 31.3 percent from three, and 39.9 percent from the field. Both shooting percentages are specifically lower than their regular season average.
In two home matchups, the Liberty averaged 90 points a game and shot 38.6 percent from three. Overall, Brooklyn’s team is more efficient on the offensive end in front of their home fans.
The Washington Mystics, led by Elena Delle Donne were able to keep all games relatively close, including an overtime loss in game 2. In four meetings against New York, the Mystics averaged 86.3 points and shot 37 percent from the three.
On the road, Washington averaged nearly 89 points and was much more efficient on the offensive end. In the final season of the matchup, the Mystics defeated the Liberty 90-88, with a last-second buzzer beater by Brittney Sykes.
Why the over will hit
Three of their four-season matchups hit the over. New York was 23-17-0 against totals, and Washington 15-24-1. Over the last ten matchups, the Liberty averaged 91 points a game, and Washington 80. New York is coming off three straight games that hit the over and will face a Washington team that ranks 8th in points per game.
New York has shown they can play defensive during prime games. In two cases, we saw this in matchups against the Connecticut Sun and the Las Vegas Aces. With three strong guards, along with Elena Delle Donne, the first game will be extremely competitive. I still like the over, based off previous matchups and recent trends.
Sabrina Ionescu, guard for the New York Liberty, is one of the most prolific shooters in the WNBA. In her fourth season with the Liberty, Ionescu is a member of this year’s fab five, which includes Breanna Stewart, Courtney Vandersloot, and Betnijah Laney.
No. 20 set several historic records this season, including most three-pointers made in a single season (128). Ionescu, 25, broke the WNBA and NBA record for most points in a three-point shooting contest with 37. On the cover of 2k24, the guard has shown why she is one of the most elite shooters in the league. She ranks third in the league in three-point percentage, beneath Tyasha Harris and Jackie Young.
The former No.1 overall draft pick is the first player in history to have 500+ points, 200+ rebounds, and 200+ assists in a regular single season. Surrounded by talent, Ionescu is undeniably the focal part of the offense.
Through 36 games, Sabrina leads the Liberty starters in three-point percentage (44.8), and three-point attempts per game (7.9). She tops the starting five in free-throw percentage (87.2) and ranks second to Breanna Stewart in minutes (31.5), and field goal attempts per game (12.8).
Excelling both on and off the ball, Ionescu is incredible in creating her own shot and coming off ball screens. After a down year in 2022, the Liberty guard is averaging over 11 points better from downtown. With Courtney Vandersloot primarily at the point guard position, Ionescu has thrived alongside her.
Matchup with the Mystics
Through 36 regular season games, Ionescu has been extremely efficient shooting-wise in front of her home fans. She finished the season shooting 47.3 percent from three, and 44.3 percent from the field in home games.
Through 17 home matchups, the guard averaged 32.4 minutes, 13.5 field goal attempts, and 8.6 three-point attempts per game. With the first two playoff games at home, Ionescu certainly makes this prop enticing.
In four matchups against the Mystics, Ionescu averaged 34 minutes, 21.3 points, 14.5 field goal attempts, 8.8 three-point shots, 7.3 rebounds 6 assists, and 1.5 steals. In the meetings, No. 20 shot 45.7 percent from the three. It’s important to note, there’s significant disparity in her statistics at home vs. away.
In two matchups at the Barclays against Washington, Ionescu totaled nearly 25.5 points and nine three-point attempts. She shot an improbable 61 percent from three, and 91 percent from the free-throw line. In games against Washington at home, Sabrina shot 54 percent from the field, almost 20 points more than away games.
After a summation of her stats, I am fairly confident in this prop hitting. On Friday, the Liberty will face a Mystics team who allow opponents to shoot 34.5 percent from the three and grant close to 23 three-point attempts per game. She is truly a special player and had enormous success in home games against the Mystics this year.
Overall, Sabrina Ionescu ranks 6th in the league in offensive rating (112.8) and will face a three-guard lineup against Ariel Atkins, Brittney Sykes, and Natasha Cloud. Both Atkins and Sykes ranked top 45 in the league in defensive rating. This prop hit 100 percent in two home matchups against Washington, in which Ionescu had 12 and 11 points by halftime.
With 17 games played at the Barclays this year, Sabrina averaged 9.2 and 8.4 overall first-half points. With back-to-back matchups with points in double figures, the Liberty guard averaged 30.7 minutes, 16.5 points, and 10.9 field goal attempts in the last ten.
Sabrina Ionescu is a competitive player, who thrives in pressure situations. Able to attack outside the perimeter, Ionescu shines in drives to the basket, in addition to getting to the line. In four matchups against the Mystics, Ionescu had 21 total free-throw attempts.
With only three playoff games in the first round, I fully expect No.20 to fire on all cylinders tomorrow night. She was named to the Associated Press All-Second Team for a reason.
Season Statistics & Betting Trends
New York Liberty
New York Liberty: 4-1 in their last 5 games.
8-2 in their last 10 games.
ATS Record: 19-21-0
O/U Record: 23-17-0
2-3 ATS in their last 5 games.
5-5 ATS in their last 10 games.
O/U is 3-2 in the last 5 games.
O/U: 6-4 in the last 10 games.
2nd in Offensive Rating (109.6)
3rd in Defensive Rating (99.4)
2nd in Points Per Game (89.2)
5th in Pace: 96.56
Opponent Points Per Game: 80.6 (4th)
Three-Point Percentage: 37.4 (1st)
Rebounds Per Game: 37.9 (2nd)
New York ATS won last 10 games: Phoenix (-12.5), Minnesota (-9), Las Vegas (-2), Connecticut (-7.5), Chicago (-9)
First WNBA full starting 5 to be featured on a subscriber-based issue of SLAM ⭐️
**Angel Reese, selected seventh overall by the Chicago Sky in the 2024 WNBA Draft, stands out as the lone rookie averaging a double-double this season.**
For those who questioned Angel Reese’s fit in the WNBA, her performance has silenced skeptics and affirmed her status as a rising star in the league. Today, she made history that underscores her potential to become one of basketball’s all-time greats. Beyond her dominance on the court, Reese is also turning heads with her fashion sense, undeniable charisma, and unwavering self-assurance, which translate beautifully into her gameplay.
In the Chicago Sky’s camp day victory, a score of 83-72 against the Dallas Wings, Reese recorded a career-high 18 rebounds alongside 16 points. With two steals added to her stats, the player dubbed “Chi-Town Barbie” achieved a remarkable milestone, becoming the first rookie ever in WNBA history to notch seven consecutive double-doubles. Eight of her rebounds were on the offensive glass, contributing to Chicago’s impressive 48-22 advantage in points scored in the paint. Just a week prior, she had set a new personal best with 20 points against the Connecticut Sun, finishing this latest game at a +17 efficiency while shooting 7-for-13 overall.
Although the Dallas Wings faced injury challenges, their head coach, Latricia Tramell, opted for a larger lineup. With Natasha Howard returning under a minutes restriction, Reese took full advantage of the matchup, showcasing her talent against formidable opponents like Howard, Monique Billings, Teaira McCowan, Morgan Bertsch, and Stephanie Soares—none of whom are shorter than 6 foot 2. Her extraordinary performance is a testament to her skill set, particularly against a Dallas team that ranks second in the league for points scored in the paint. Winning in the WNBA is no small feat, particularly when competing against players towering 6 foot 5 and taller.
In a post-game interview, Reese revealed that she had studied extensive film on Dallas, emphasizing her willingness to do the hard work for her teammates. “I’ll step in, I’ll mess up my nails, lashes, and stuff like that, just for my teammates,” Reese shared in a social media post from the Chicago Sky. She embodies the qualities every franchise covets in a cornerstone player: heart, grit, and hustle.
Reese’s impressive statistics now place her among the legendary figures who paved the way for women’s basketball, such as Sylvia Fowles, Elena Delle Donne, and Candace Parker. With ambitions to surpass Fowles’s season offensive rebounding record, Reese is already third in the league in rebounds, leading all rookies with a total of 68 offensive boards, outpacing elite players such as A’ja Wilson, Napheesa Collier, and Alyssa Thomas.
During the broadcast, Reese emphasized her close relationship with Fowles, reiterating her commitment to victory. “I just want to do whatever it takes to win, and rebounding is what I do to win,” Reese expressed following the game.
With her seventh consecutive double-double, Reese is having a historic rookie season and is on track to break Fowles’s records as she continues to excel at just 22 years old. At halftime, she had already secured 11 rebounds and eclipsed previous records held by Cindy Brown and Tina Charles. Currently, she boasts averages of 12.4 points and 10.8 rebounds per game, making her the only rookie to reach double figures this season. Following the unfortunate injury to Cameron Brink, Reese has distinguished herself in her rookie class.
The Sky entered this game on a rough stretch, having lost four consecutive outings against the Dream, Sun, Mystics, and Fever. However, Reese and her teammates delivered an electrifying performance at Chicago’s annual Camp Day, where many young fans experience their first WNBA game. Engaging with thousands of children in the crowd, Reese expressed her joy in clinching a victory. “Man, I’m just happy we finally won,” she told ESPN. “I’m excited to be in this league, and win some more.”
Currently second overall in points behind Caitlin Clark, Reese leads all rookies in rebounds per game, free-throw attempts and makes, field goals attempted and made, and steals. Her accomplishments make a strong case for the 2024 WNBA Rookie of the Year Award.
While other players also earn attention, it’s essential not to overlook Reese, a bona fide national champion and standout during her four years at LSU under the guidance of coach Kim Mulkey. Drafted alongside fellow Gamecock legend Kamilla Cardoso, there were questions about how the two would fit into Teresa Weatherspoon’s front court. Despite some media controversies, Reese consistently puts up impressive numbers.
Standing at 6 foot 3, Reese has recorded double-doubles against notable teams like the Fever, Mystics, Sun, Dream, and Liberty. Out of those seven games, three teams rank among the top five in rebounding. Today, she exhibited relentless aggression, creating numerous second-chance opportunities. Developing her mid-range and outside shooting game would elevate her to a true triple threat.
Eager to continue improving, Reese is a legitimate contender for Rookie of the Year, thriving by consistently making winning plays.
With a season record of 5-9, Reese and the Chicago Sky look ahead to their next challenge against the Indiana Fever at home this Sunday evening.
Introducing the 2024 US Women’s 3×3 Olympics Team: Brink, Burdick, Howard, Van Lith
Introducing the USA Basketball 3x3 Women's National Team
The American Basketball organization has announced the starting lineup for the 2024 Women’s National 3×3 squad.
Featuring the talented Cameron Brink as a standout, the team will also boast the skills of Rhyne Howard, Hailey Van Lith, and Cierra Burdick. Chosen by a selection panel, the Olympic Games are set to be held in Paris, showcasing what promises to be an exceedingly powerful, adaptable, and all-rounded team.
Just a year prior, Brink, Van Lith, and Burdick guided the USA team to victory at the 2023 FIBA 3×3 World Cup, securing the gold medal. With a mix of experienced and emerging talents, team cohesion is expected to be even stronger. Van Lith and Burdick, in particular, have been playing alongside each other since the 2022 World Cup.
The announcement of the players selected for the team was met with profound emotional displays across various social media platforms.
At 22, Brink, who was the Los Angeles Sparks’ second pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, has consistently performed during her freshman season. With Stanford as her alma mater, Brink’s averages include 8.8 points, 5.4 rebounds, 2.1 assists, and 1.1 steals per game. Renowned for her defensive capabilities, her professional performance has lived up to expectations.
Ranking second in the WNBA for total blocks (21) and leading new recruits in that domain, Brink also stands third among her rookie peers for rebounds. As a highly regarded defensive anchor in the league, she excels in defensive boards per contest. With an average of 2.6 blocks per outing, her defensive acumen will be pivotal in the 3×3 format.
After achieving a personal best of 21 points in a recent game against the Fever, the Stanford graduate was honored as the MVP of the 2023 3×3 FIBA World Cup, having steered her team to the top podium. She also played in the 2018 FIBA U17 and 2019 U19 Women’s World Cup teams.
Expanding her team’s offensive options, Brink offers spacing on the floor and can both shoot from the distance and engage in post-up moves. A crucial element will be her prowess in seizing the offensive rebounds.
Introduced at the Tokyo Games in 2021, the 3×3 basketball format promises a riveting yet demanding style of play. Rizzotti and the team are gearing up for their inaugural run in Paris, with the events slated to commence at the twilight of July, stretching into early August.
WNBA Players of the Week: A’ja Wilson and Sabrina Ionescu
Week 3 Western Conference Player of the Week: A'ja Wilson
MVP Periodt and the Sovereign of Brooklyn are dominating WNBA news.
A’ja Wilson from the Las Vegas Aces and Sabrina Ionescu of the New York Liberty have undeniably made an impression, influencing the game within and outside the bounds of the court. Formerly competitors in the 2023 WNBA Finals, they have now claimed the titles of Eastern and Western Conference players of the week.
Ionescu is partnered with Nike and recently unwrapped the Sabrina 2s just last month. Around this coinciding period, Wilson disclosed her inaugural shoe, the Nike A’One, slated for a 2025 launch. Wilson now stands alongside Ionescu as one of the trio of active WNBA athletes boasting their own exclusive footwear lines.
Not even a full two months into the current season and Wilson as well as Ionescu are exerting considerable influence on their respective squads’ performances.
Despite Wilson’s impressive credentials as a two-time WNBA Champion, MVP, and Defensive Player of the Year, she hasn’t overlooked that one time she was ranked fourth by an MVP voter. And with reason, she perpetuates her response to the skeptics with stellar displays on the basketball court.
A’ja Wilson is once again performing at an MVP level
Off to a blistering start, the Aces star added eight blocks and three steals in both matchups against the Atlanta Dream and Minnesota Lynx.
4-2 on the season, Becky Hammon and the Aces suffered a rare 78-74 against the Dream on the road. However, how can we forget Wilson’s unforgettable block on good friend Allisha Gray? It may not have traveled into the concession stand but was a statement block.
On pace for another historical season, Wilson started off the season with five straight double-doubles, owning the longest streak of 20+ points and 10+ rebounds in WNBA history. The league leader in blocks with 12.4, Wilson boasted 29 points, 15 rebounds, three assists, two steals, and four blocks against the Lynx. And a few days later, she put up 28 points, three assists, one steal, and four blocks against the Dream. Over the two games, Wilson shot 46.1 percent from the field.
Earning the weekly award for the 17th time in her career, Wilson has elevated her game significantly. Through six games into the 2024 season, the Aces star is averaging career-highs in points (26.5), rebounds (12.5), and blocks (2.8). Leading the league in player-estimated impact, Wilson is already poised as one of the all-time greats ever to grace the game.
Sabrina Ionescu’s game has evolved beyond the three-point shot
Nearly 21 percent (31) of Ionescu’s 146 field goal attempts have been delivered as driving layups and floating bank shots. Compare this to last year, where she only attempted 17 floater shots. More confident than ever, the California native averages the most points since her rookie season, with 17.9 points per game. Given she only played three games in her first season, it’s a testament to the dedication, growth, and evolution of her game.
Ionescu started off the week with a game-high 22 points, six rebounds, and nine assists against the Phoenix Mercury at home. According to Liberty PR, Ionescu became the first player in franchise history to record double-digit points with at least five assists in a single quarter (10 points and five assists).
Just a few days later, No. 20 poured in 24 points, one rebound, three assists, on 50 percent three-point shooting against Washington at the Barclays. To end the week, the former Oregon star put up 16 points, six rebounds, and six assists in front of 17,000+ fans against the Indiana Fever.
The Las Vegas Aces (4-2) are set to match up against the Dallas Wings, Seattle Storm, and Los Angeles Sparks this week. The New York Liberty defeated the Chicago Sky 88-75 on Tuesday night, and will matchup with Atlanta, Connecticut, and Washington later this week.
