It was quite evident right from the beginning that the officials were going to allow a physical game in Game 2 between the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx. Primarily, New York was fueled by a raucous home crowd, forcing the Lynx into a questionable three turnovers in just two minutes of action, thanks to Liberty’s aggressive point-of-attack plan. However, the highlight of Sunday’s game was definitely Courtney Vandersloot—though not in a positive way.

“Courtney Vandersloot received a Flagrant 1 after this foul was reviewed for a reckless closeout,” read a post by WNBA Universe. It happened when Vandersloot kept a tight check on Natisha Hiedeman as she attempted a three-point shot. As the ball was in the air, the #2 Lynx guard extended her foot, while Vandersloot carefully avoided stepping into her landing space.

Moments later, the shooter was on the floor, and the refs handed Liberty’s standout a Flagrant 1 foul. At that time, the Lynx were down by eight points as the fourth quarter opened in Game 2. While Williams continued to showcase her mid-range mastery, Vandersloot’s triple pushed the Liberty ahead by an impressive 11 points early in the period.

That’s when Hiedeman responded. Due to Vandersloot’s closeout, she drew a Flagrant 1. Still, Hiedeman wasn’t satisfied. Shortly afterward, she drew a big offensive foul on Breanna Stewart. While it might seem suspicious, it was enough to pull the Lynx within two points, with 5:36 remaining on the clock.

Clearly, it wasn’t a good day for Vandersloot.

Despite pouring in all her possible efforts, she left the hardwood after just 11 minutes of gameplay to avoid being hit with a Flagrant 2, which would have led to her automatic ejection from the game. It marked her second Flagrant 1 foul in her 13-season WNBA career. Before today’s game, she had faced a similar situation as part of the Chicago Sky in 2022.

However, her time on the court was enough to contribute three points, two rebounds, and one assist to the Liberty’s impressive 66-80 win in Game 2 of the finals. Thanks to her Liberty teammates, who stepped up to help lead the team to victory. “Underdog” Betnijah Laney put up an impressive 20 points despite physical struggles, while Breanna Stewart led with 21 points.

Keeping up the pace, Sabrina Ionescu added 15 points, and Jonquel Jones followed with 14 points in today’s game. But the happiness is short-lived, as both the Lynx and Liberty now stand tied in the race for the WNBA championship. Will the Liberty be able to justify their No. 1 seed this season? Stay tuned to find out!