Storylines ran without shortage on June 15, 2024, as the star-studded New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces shared center stage for the first time since their memorable clash in the 2023 WNBA Finals. Yet, somewhere amidst the intrigue of observing the last two WNBA Most Valuable Player winners go head-to-head, Jonquel Jones delivered a noticeable message: the 2021 season’s winner remains equally capable of being the best player on any floor she resides. Already locked into an unguardable offensive groove, Jones sustains momentum through a fluid screen-and-roll, prompting a switch that leaves Kelsey Plum overpowered and A’ja Wilson a fraction late defensively. Using her 6-foot-6 frame to her advantageously, Jones presents herself before banking in an and-one bucket, breaking a second quarter tie. The five-time All-Star’s evening concluded with a career-best 34 points (on a near-flawless 12-of-16 shooting), eight rebounds, and four 3-pointers, extending one of her career’s finest game-by-game offensive stretches. Benefitting from five days' rest, Jones’ scorching start and around-the-floor excellence helped New York prevail, marking consecutive victory No. 8. · Jun 15, 2024