Sat Jul 05 23:50:00 UTC 2025: **News Article:**
**Liberty Surge Past Sparks Behind Cloud’s Spark, Brondello Named All-Star Coach**
NEW YORK — A dominant third quarter performance, fueled by Natasha Cloud’s explosive scoring, propelled the New York Liberty to an 89-79 victory over the Los Angeles Sparks on Thursday night. Cloud poured in 11 of her game-high 23 points in the third period, sparking a crucial run that turned the tide in the Liberty’s favor.
Breanna Stewart contributed a strong double-double with 17 points and 14 rebounds, while Sabrina Ionescu added 20 points to round out the Liberty’s offensive attack.
The defending champion Liberty (12-5) found themselves trailing 53-42 midway through the third quarter before Cloud and Ionescu ignited the team’s comeback. A three-point play by Cloud sparked a 13-0 run, followed by Ionescu scoring 10 consecutive points, giving New York a 63-59 lead. The Liberty extended their advantage to 69-59 by the end of the quarter and ultimately sealed the victory.
Dearica Hamby led the Sparks (5-13) with 25 points. Los Angeles saw the return of Rae Burrell, who played 12 minutes in her first action since injuring her knee in the season opener. The Sparks also debuted Julie Vanloo, who was acquired off waivers just hours before the game.
The win, combined with Phoenix’s loss to Dallas, secured Liberty coach Sandy Brondello’s spot as one of the two All-Star coaches. Minnesota Lynx coach Cheryl Reeve will lead the other All-Star squad. The Lynx and Liberty hold the league’s best records at the cutoff date for All-Star coaching selections. The All-Star Game is scheduled for July 19th in Indianapolis.
The Liberty were still without Jonquel Jones. The team welcomed back Leonie Fiebich, who had been playing for Germany in the EuroBasket tournament.
First Piper 