WNBA Rivalry Reignites: Storm and Liberty Set for Another Thrilling Showdown
The WNBA season continues to deliver captivating matchups, and few rivalries are as compelling as that between the Seattle Storm and the New York Liberty. With recent clashes showcasing intense competition and standout performances, fans are eagerly anticipating their next encounter.
The most recent chapter in this burgeoning rivalry unfolded on June 22, 2025, at Climate Pledge Arena in Seattle. The Seattle Storm, playing on their home court in front of an enthusiastic crowd of 12,500, secured a decisive 89-79 victory over the defending WNBA champion New York Liberty. The Storm’s triumph was spearheaded by stellar performances from Nneka Ogwumike, who poured in 26 points on an efficient 12-of-17 shooting, and Skylar Diggins, who added 20 points. Despite a strong effort from the Liberty’s Breanna Stewart, who led her team with 18 points, New York struggled with ball security, committing 21 turnovers compared to Seattle’s 10. The Liberty did hold a slight edge in field goal percentage (44.4% to 42.7%) and three-point percentage (33.3% to 30.8%), but the Storm’s ability to protect the ball and capitalize on opportunities proved to be the difference-maker.
This recent Storm victory marks a shift from an earlier encounter in the 2024 season. On May 20, 2024, the New York Liberty showcased their early-season dominance by defeating the Seattle Storm 74-63 at Barclays Center in Brooklyn. That game saw Sabrina Ionescu lead the Liberty with 20 points, contributing to New York’s impressive 4-0 start to the 2024 season – their best in 17 years. Jewell Loyd led the Storm in that contest with 13 points. The Liberty demonstrated superior shooting from the field (41.3% to 34.3%) and controlled the boards with 36 rebounds to the Storm’s 34.
As the 2025 season progresses, both teams are solid contenders. Heading into their next game, the New York Liberty boast a strong 12-5 record, placing them second in the Eastern Conference. Their home record stands at an impressive 7-1, though they are 5-4 on the road. The Seattle Storm are also performing well, holding an 11-7 record, good for fifth in the Western Conference, with a 6-3 home record and 5-4 away record. The Storm’s recent win on June 22, 2025, means they currently lead the 2025 regular season series 1-0 against the Liberty.
The stage is now set for their next highly anticipated matchup on July 6, 2025, once again at Barclays Center. Sports analysts are predicting a close contest, with the New York Liberty favored to cover a -5 spread. The total points line is set at 168, with a lean towards the Under 166.5 points. Key player performances are also a focus for this upcoming game. For the Liberty, Sabrina Ionescu is projected to score Over 18.5 points, Natasha Cloud Over 10.5 points, and Breanna Stewart Over 20.5 points. On the Storm’s side, Nneka Ogwumike is anticipated to score Over 17.5 points, and Skylar Diggins-Smith Over 16.5 points. These projections highlight the offensive firepower expected from both squads.
With the Storm looking to extend their 2025 series lead and the Liberty aiming for revenge on their home court, the July 6th game promises to be another thrilling chapter in this compelling WNBA rivalry. Fans can expect a high-stakes battle as both teams vie for crucial wins in their respective conference standings.
