PREVIEW: The New York Liberty kick off their title defense against the Las Vegas Aces in a highly anticipated WNBA season opener at Barclays Center, featuring two powerhouse teams with remarkable statistical prowess. The Liberty boast an elite offensive profile, ranking first in high-frequency three-point shooting at 41% and second in free throw efficiency at 82.7%, positioning them as a formidable scoring threat. Las Vegas enters the game with an equally impressive statistical resume, leading the league in defensive metrics including top rankings in defense against rim attacks and defensive rebounding. Their low turnover rate and exceptional passing game underscore the Aces' comprehensive team strength. The matchup represents a compelling rematch of last season's playoff semifinals, where the Liberty defeated the Aces en route to their first-ever championship. Key storylines include the Aces' offseason acquisition of Jewell Loyd, who replaces longtime guard Kelsey Plum and brings her own scoring prowess to the team's dynamic lineup. The Liberty have maintained their core championship roster, with stars Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones ready to build on their remarkable 2024 campaign. With both teams showcasing top-tier talent and statistical dominance across multiple performance categories, this game promises to be a thrilling start to the 2025 WNBA season.