Portland Fire vs New York Liberty Preview: Top 3 Storylines Ahead of Their Double Header
The May 12 clash between Portland Fire and New York Liberty turned into one of the biggest early-season WNBA stories after Portland stunned the Liberty 98-93 with a buzzer-beating finish. Now, attention shifts to the second game of the double header as New York looks for revenge while Portland tries to prove its historic win was not a one-night moment.
Portland Fire Suddenly Looks Dangerous After Historic First Win
Sarah Ashlee Barker scored the game-winning putback layup with seconds remaining, sending the Moda Center crowd into celebration. Bridget Carleton added a career-high 26 points, while Carla Leite scored 21 points in one of Portland’s strongest offensive performances so far.
Quarter-by-quarter flow from Game 1
- 1st Quarter: Liberty controlled the pace early
- 2nd Quarter: Portland improved ball movement and stayed close
- 3rd Quarter: New York entered the fourth with a seven-point lead
- 4th Quarter: Fire outscored Liberty late and won 98-93 on the buzzer
Portland’s transition offense became the difference in the final minutes, especially after New York committed costly defensive mistakes.
Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones Must Respond Strongly
Even in defeat, New York’s frontcourt stars continued producing big numbers. Breanna Stewart remained aggressive inside, while Jonquel Jones controlled rebounds for long stretches. However, the Liberty struggled defensively during clutch moments and could not protect their late lead.
Key Liberty performers in the previous game
- Breanna Stewart continued efficient paint scoring
- Pauline Astier reached a career-high 25 points
- Marine Johannès scored 18 points with strong three-point shooting
- All five Liberty starters scored in double figures
New York’s biggest issue was late-game execution. Portland repeatedly attacked the rim during the final possessions, exposing defensive gaps inside the paint.
Sabrina Ionescu’s Absence Is Changing Everything
The biggest talking point around this double header remains the absence of Sabrina Ionescu. The Liberty star guard is sidelined with a left foot injury and was ruled out for both Portland games. Her injury has completely changed New York’s backcourt rotation.
Without Ionescu:
- Marine Johannès has become the primary perimeter scorer
- Pauline Astier has taken more playmaking responsibility
- New York’s offense plays faster but looks less controlled late in games
The Liberty initially handled the injury well, winning their first games despite her absence. However, the loss against Portland showed how much the team misses Ionescu’s leadership during pressure moments.
For Portland fans, Ionescu’s absence is also emotional because the former Oregon Ducks superstar was expected to return to Moda Center before the injury setback.
Numbers Defining the Matchup
| Team | Record | Latest Result | Biggest Strength |
| New York Liberty | 2-0 | Lost 98-93 vs Portland | Elite scoring depth |
| Portland Fire | 0-1 | Won 98-93 vs New York | Transition offense |
Leading Players and Their Scores From the May 12 Match
New York Liberty Top Performers
- Breanna Stewart: 21 points, strong paint scoring and rebounding
- Marine Johannès: 18 points with key three-pointers
- Pauline Astier: career-high 25 points and major playmaking role
- Jonquel Jones: double-double impact with rebounds and interior defense
Portland Fire Top Performers
- Bridget Carleton: career-high 26 points and clutch late shooting
- Carla Leite: 21 points with aggressive transition offense
- Sarah Ashlee Barker: game-winning buzzer-beater plus strong fourth-quarter energy
- Haley Jones: important defensive work and transition ball movement
What to Watch in the Rematch
The second game on Thursday, May 14th, 2026, now feels far bigger than a normal early-season matchup. Portland enters with confidence after making franchise history, while New York needs a response before its road trip becomes a major concern.
If the Fire again control the fourth quarter tempo, another upset is possible. But if Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones dominate inside early, the Liberty could quickly regain control of the series.
FAQs
Sabrina Ionescu is sidelined with a left foot injury and is expected to miss both Portland games.
Sarah Ashlee Barker hit the game-winning putback layup in Portland’s 98-93 victory.
Bridget Carleton led Portland with a career-high 26 points.
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