29
Jul
Match Report
Talbot's perfect game not enough for Liberty
Steoh Talbot during the 2025 WNBA season. Photo: Elsa/Getty Images
The Aussie Opals star repaid the faith for the Liberty with a stellar performance in a loss.
- Sandy Brondello and Steph Talbot's New York Liberty lost to the Dallas Wings 92-82
- Talbot had 10 points, six rebounds, three assists and three blocks in 24 minutes off the bench for New York
- She was recently signed by New York after she was waived by the Golden State Valkyries
A perfect game from the field for Australia's Steph Talbot wasn't enough for the New York Liberty who went down to No.1 draft pick Paige Bueckers and the Dallas Wings 92-82 at College Park Center.
After being signed by Opals coach Sandy Brondello following her axing from the Golden State Valkyries, Talbot repaid that faith from her national team mentor, going 4-from-4 from the field and 1-from-1 from the three-point line while filling up the stat sheet with six rebounds, three assists, three blocks and two steals in 24 minutes off the bench in the loss for the Liberty.
The Wings established dominance early, racing to a 31-19 advantage after the first quarter behind efficient scoring from Bueckers and Arike Ogunbowale. Dallas continued their outstanding offensive execution in the second period, extending their lead to a commanding 63-36 by halftime with contributions from multiple players.
Dallas's defensive intensity was exceptional throughout the first half, holding the Liberty to just 36 points on 43 percent shooting while forcing several turnovers. Bueckers' impact was felt on both ends, as she combined smart playmaking with timely scoring to keep Dallas in control.
The third quarter saw the Wings maintain their substantial advantage, despite improved play from New York. Luisa Geiselsöder provided a spark for Dallas with a three-pointer at the 6:49 mark, helping the Wings take an 85-62 lead into the final period.
New York mounted a determined comeback attempt in the fourth quarter, outscoring Dallas 20-7 to cut the deficit to 10 points. Jonquel Jones hit a crucial three-pointer with 1:44 remaining to trim the lead to 88-82, but clutch free throws from Bueckers and DiJonai Carrington in the final minute sealed the victory for Dallas.
The Wings' balanced attack proved decisive as they shot 46 percent from the field (36-from-78) compared to the Liberty's 43 percent (28-from-64). Dallas also dominated the free-throw line, converting 13-of-14 attempts (92 percent) while maintaining a 39-33 rebounding advantage throughout the contest.
