While Kayla Thornton knocked down a career-high six three-pointers, Breanna Stewart wreaked havoc and swatted as many shots in Saturday’s 98-88 win over the Los Angeles Sparks.
Stewart’s six blocks Saturday notched a career-high for the star.
But the block on Sparks forward Stephanie Talbot’s layup was the highlight of the night.
HUGEEE REJECTION FROM STEW YORK ❌@breannastewart reaches her new career-high of 6 blocks against the Sparks 🔥 pic.twitter.com/Jzh6EtnJ1w
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) June 22, 2024
After missing a three-point attempt, Stewart raced back to prevent a fast break layup for Talbot. Stewart was near the free-throw line when Talbot received the pass, seemingly in position to convert the attempt. But Stewart — the five-time All-WNBA Defensive Team selection — successfully chased down Talbot and rejected the attempt, which sent the ball out of bounds while both players fell to the floor.
“Just the timing. I could see [Dearica] Hamby was about to pass it back to Steph,” Stewart said postgame.
It was an all-out effort with her team up 20. And it drew a huge ovation from the home crowd.
“The way that the fans reacted, I mean it’s amazing to have those type of blocks at home.
Stewart’s head coach and teammates also raved about the play postgame.
“I can’t believe she actually got back to do that,” Brondello said afterward. The head coach noted she was worried after Stewart hit the stanchion on the way down but called the play “inspiring.”
“That’s why I don’t like scoring on her in practice because she’s able to do that,” Sabrina Ionescu said.