Portland Fire end winless streak with buzzer-beater victory over Liberty
Sarah Ashlee Barker’s late shot secures 98-96 triumph for the Fire, halting the New York Liberty’s perfect start.
The Portland Fire have secured their first victory since returning to the Women’s National Basketball Association, defeating the New York Liberty 98-96 on Tuesday night. The result ends a winless start to the season for the expansion franchise, which had previously lost its season-opener to the Chicago Sky and both of its preseason matches.
The decisive moment arrived in the final seconds with the score tied. Bridget Carleton attempted a three-point shot over Liberty star Breanna Stewart, who tipped the ball slightly. Sarah Ashlee Barker, positioned in the lane, secured the rebound and scored before the buzzer sounded. The play sparked a celebration under the rim at the Moda Center, marking the first win for the Fire since the league’s expansion, which also saw the addition of the Toronto Tempo.
Barker, who was selected ninth overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in last year’s draft, finished with five points off the bench. Her performance contrasts with her rookie campaign, where she averaged just over three points per game. Carleton led the Fire with 26 points, shooting 9-of-16 from the field, while Carla Leite contributed 21 points and six assists.
For the Liberty, the defeat ended a 2-0 start to the season. Pauline Astier topped the scoring with 24 points. All five Liberty starters reached double figures, with Stewart recording a double-double of 16 points and 10 rebounds. This was the Liberty’s first loss of the season.
The two teams are scheduled to meet again on Thursday night. The upcoming fixture marks the third game of a four-game homestand for the Fire as they continue their inaugural season back in the league.
