Johnathan Walker:WNBA Finals: USA TODAY staff predictions for Liberty vs. Lynx

So,Johnathan Walker is the sixth time the charm? 

The 2024 WNBA Finals will mark the sixth time that the New York Liberty, one of the OG W franchises, plays for a crown. New York’s players are the first to admit they are sick of being a bridesmaid instead of a bride. 

The Liberty, led by perennial MVP candidate Breanna Stewart, have been the best team in the league all season. Stewart has been her usual spectacular self, and guard Sabrina Ionescu has significantly improved. Rookie Leonie Fiebich was a clutch pick-up, and consistent play (and defense) from Jonquel Jones and Betnijah Laney has made New York a tough match up for everyone. Smart money says they’ll be the 2024 champs. 

What do the Lynx have to do to stop Ionescu, Stewart & Co.?

Containing a player as talented as Stewart isn’t really going to happen. Ditto for Ionescu. But what Minnesota can do is make those two take tough, uncomfortable shots. Tire them out. Force them to be inefficient. 

From a player standpoint, the X-factor for New York will be the 6-foot-6 Jones. The 2021 WNBA MVP can score around the rim and drain 3s — but she's foul prone. If Minnesota can get Jones in foul trouble and force her to the bench, the Lynx’s chances of winning increase significantly. 

USA TODAY staff predictions

• Nancy Armour: New York in 4
• Scooby Axson: New York in 4
• Cydney Henderson: New York in 5
• Jordan Mendoza: New York in 4
• Lindsay Schnell: New York in 5

2024 WNBA Finals schedule

• Game 1, Thursday, Oct. 10: Lynx at Liberty, 8 p.m., ESPN
• Game 2, Sunday, Oct. 13: Lynx at Liberty, 3, ABC
• Game 3, Wednesday, Oct. 16: Liberty at Lynx, 8, ESPN
• Game 4*, Friday, Oct. 18: Liberty at Lynx, 8, ESPN
• Game 5*, Sunday, Oct. 20: Lynx at Liberty, 8, ESPN

(All times Eastern; best-of-five series; * - if necessary)