New York Liberty vs. Atlanta Dream Game 3 Semifinals Postgame Press Conference

[1:14] Hey, Coach, obviously the season is over tonight. [1:19] When you were hired by Jonathan Cole back in December, [1:23] he praised you for being tactical in your process. [1:27] That's what he said in the introductory presser. [1:30] How would you evaluate your process this season, [1:34] in particular the series against Atlanta? [1:36] Yeah, well, first off I want to say our players fought like hell. [1:42] They played so hard. [1:44] And whether it was getting out of that first round [1:47] to have the chance to play in this one, [1:50] or it was just these three games, like I'm so proud of our players [1:53] and how hard they played. [1:55] You can't always count on makes and stuff happens, [1:59] but as far as the fight, the attention, the detail, and the effort, [2:04] it was all there. [2:06] Yeah, I just thought we had some missed opportunities throughout. [2:10] Basketball is about the possession game, [2:12] and we obviously struggled those first two games [2:15] and made some adjustments [2:17] and tried to speed the game up a little bit. [2:19] They have a hell of a team, hell of a players. [2:21] They fought, and I'm just really proud of our team. [2:24] Chris, I got two for you. [2:28] First of all, what was the explanation they gave you on that foul [2:30] that Phoebus got called for? [2:32] Yeah, I wasn't able to. [2:34] Yeah, we talked about trying to challenge it. [2:38] They're like, it doesn't matter. [2:40] She got pushed into the shooter, which means three free throws. [2:43] They were trying to give him to Howard, so we called the timeout, [2:45] then they gave him to Bonner, obviously. [2:47] So that's the explanation I got. [2:49] And the second one is just that last play, [2:51] I mean, you get your best player of the ball, [2:53] and Stewie had his chance and just missed it. [2:54] Yeah, she got downhill, thought it was a good look. [2:57] We'll do that every single time. [2:59] We'll do it every single time. [3:01] And what a winner she is, and a competitor, [3:06] and just unbelievable, unbelievable. [3:09] Hey, Chris, I've got a couple for you. [3:12] First, what do you think stopped you guys from being able to win this game? [3:17] Yeah, I thought, obviously, even on makes, [3:21] Candida was racing us before we could get our shell defense. [3:24] She obviously hurt us in the paint. [3:26] They made a few more plays than us. [3:29] But again, I thought we had good looks. [3:31] I thought we missed a few, could have turned the game the other way, [3:33] a couple missed opportunities on the glass. [3:35] But what a great team they are, what a good team we are, [3:40] and it was just a battle out there. [3:42] It was a battle. [3:43] And also, just how do you reflect on this season [3:48] when it comes to thinking about what you would do differently in the future? [3:53] Yeah, I'm going to take some time and really assess, [3:56] as I do at the end of every season, not just myself, staff, players, everything, [4:01] take a look at it. [4:02] The great part about what I do is that you're constantly learning, [4:06] and there's new things you learn every single day, every season, [4:10] things you'll take away, things you'll get rid of, whatever that may be. [4:13] But I'm really, really proud of our group. [4:16] I'll say it again. [4:17] Coach, a couple of things. [4:20] First, obviously, with these serving as exit interviews, [4:23] is it your expectation that you'll be returning next year? [4:26] Yes. [4:27] And related to it, do you expect, as you reflect on these last few months, [4:32] to have any changes on the coaching staff? [4:34] Or do you expect the staff to return? [4:35] I have no idea. [4:36] I mean, we just lost an emotional game. [4:38] Sure. [4:39] I understand. [4:40] Thank you. [4:45] Coach, when you think about especially how your team was able to make adjustments [4:51] right around that FIBA break, what stands out to you? [4:56] And similarly to what you've been asked before, [4:58] how would you take that part of the season [5:01] and incorporate it into what you'd like to see moving forward? [5:04] I just loved our focus. [5:05] I loved our leadership. [5:07] I think this is as much adversity as I've ever been a part of [5:11] with a lot of what's gone on this season, whether it be the injuries, [5:15] whether like the world – we had so many players playing in the World Cup. [5:18] It was just a funny season. [5:20] So I am very proud of the fact that our group came together. [5:23] It didn't matter that we were the AC, didn't even talk about it. [5:25] We won a series and then battled our asses off in this one. [5:28] And I wanted more for them. [5:30] I really did. [5:31] And you could see how hard they were playing. [5:33] And, you know, I love this team and I love the contributions. [5:36] I love the improvements a lot of our players made. [5:38] I love the way our rookies stepped up, all that. [5:40] So, yeah, again. [5:42] Chris, I know the playoffs are about matchups. [5:46] It felt like you guys were playing some of your best basketball in the first round. [5:49] I know it's a totally different opponent, [5:51] but what made Atlanta such a difficult matchup for you all these three games? [5:56] They just – they play a different brand of basketball [5:58] with some of their switchability on the ball, with their physicality. [6:01] You know, some of the teams we struggled with, [6:03] I'll say with the Valkyries the same. [6:05] It's just – it's a different brand of basketball. [6:07] And I actually – I mean, again, I thought our players matched it, [6:10] if not exceeded it at times. [6:12] And end of the day, like, you know, some shots go in, some don't. [6:16] And you're battling for loose balls. [6:18] And, like, where's the whistle going? [6:19] All that stuff matters. [6:20] And I just thought we had the right focus. [6:22] And, you know, they had a little bit of a lead. [6:23] We fought back, had our own lead. [6:25] And we just didn't close. [6:27] So, again, good team, well-coached team. [6:30] And, yeah, really – I really think going forward, [6:37] we know exactly what it's going to take with teams like this. [6:40] What will it take, then? [6:43] The level of focus and physicality we had tonight in game two. [6:46] Hey, Chris. [6:48] Two quick ones. [6:49] One, in the fourth quarter you guys start with a second chance make, [6:52] but then don't score for about the next five minutes or so. [6:54] What were you seeing? [6:55] And, obviously, you ran those same five for the last long stretch of the game. [6:59] And do you think there was fatigue as a factor? [7:00] Yeah, I mean, I knew I had two timeouts I could burn before the three. [7:03] So, it was one of those where we were going to – you know, we made a run. [7:06] Like, let's stick with that unit. [7:07] Let's use our timeouts the right way. [7:09] Get them some rest. [7:10] They had called a timeout. [7:11] So, we thought we were okay there. [7:12] Thanks. [7:13] And then, just John Quell tonight. [7:15] There was a lot of talk about just the physicality in the series. [7:17] And she responded. [7:18] And I think she – 26 and 14. [7:20] She's phenomenal. [7:21] Just what did you make of her response and the leadership in that moment? [7:24] She brought it. [7:25] Everyone in that locker room, they didn't want to lose. [7:27] They did not want to lose when they played like it. [7:28] And she was just phenomenal out there. [7:30] Chris, you mentioned earlier kind of the – [7:34] the beauty of the job is learning. [7:37] It's been a rollercoaster regular season, rollercoaster postseason with a sweep, [7:41] and then suffering a sweep in your first WNBA season. [7:44] What have you learned that you'll take into future ones? [7:47] Yeah, again, I've got to have the whole recap in the next coming days. [7:50] But in general, I think like the way I feel and the way our team feels [7:54] is how the rest of the league feels if they don't win it. [7:57] And whether it's right now or in two weeks, whatever it is, [8:00] like we know we have a team that can win this thing, [8:03] a team that can get to the finals. [8:04] We know we could have played better. [8:06] But it hurts. [8:07] It does hurt. [8:08] And everyone's going to be disappointed if they don't win the championship, [8:11] or they should be. [8:12] Hey, Chris. [8:15] I guess you talk about not sure what offseason looks like for you. [8:18] Expect to be back and all. [8:19] I guess how long do you think it'll take for you to stay away from this game [8:23] or whoever just transpired and then come back to it, learn from it, [8:26] and then go on to the next game? [8:28] Yeah, I'm probably not going to take a break. [8:30] It's what we signed up for as coaches, what we love. [8:33] And any time you finish a season with expectations of winning a championship [8:38] or you don't, you look at absolutely everything. [8:40] And then that's what we'll do. [8:43] Chris, when you said your expectations are that you'll be back next season, [8:46] has that been communicated directly to you? [8:48] As far as I know, every communication I've had, the dialogue I've had, [8:52] the answer is yes. [8:53] And then when it comes to the roster construction, [8:55] you talk about like the Atlanta Dream playing a different brand of basketball, [8:58] Golden State Valkyries as well. [9:00] As the roster is currently constructed, [9:01] do you think that this big three can stay together [9:05] and have enough to jump that hurdle, Atlanta Dream pose, Golden State Valkyries? [9:10] I believe in this locker room and I believe in our roster. [9:13] And I do think we had enough. [9:15] Now that's a Jonathan question, obviously. [9:17] I don't make the roster decisions. [9:19] But I do think we have enough as is. [9:21] And like I said, we fought like hell and a few things go differently. [9:26] Maybe we're up 2-1 right now. [9:27] When you think about like the season and the big picture, [9:31] I know you're still processing what just happened. [9:33] But everything that this team and you have gone through with, you know, [9:37] the Benajah situation, Satu's concussion, all the injuries, everything. [9:42] How would you say that you guys have just navigated the turbulence of this year? [9:48] I think we navigated it well. [9:52] I think, you know, especially Satu. [9:56] You know, she's built for a series like this, obviously, with her ability to be physical, [10:01] get to the rim, do all those things. [10:03] But again, not to go down that path, but the priority with her is always going to be health. [10:09] We want to make sure she feels good before she plays again. [10:11] Hey, Coach. [10:13] Can you just talk a bit about what it was like working alongside Brianna Stewart all season [10:18] in these elimination games, high moment situations? [10:20] Yeah, I mean, there's an incredible level of comfort when you know a player like that is on your team [10:26] and is going to bring that mindset every single game. [10:28] And I've talked about it again, just the way she looks you in the eye, [10:32] the way she goes on the floor and commands the huddles, [10:35] the way she strikes fear and opponents, all of that. [10:38] She's just a big-time player. [10:39] And, yeah, I just can't say enough good things about her. [10:43] Hey, Chris. [10:46] After a long season, I don't want to get, like, too nitty-gritty [10:51] and asking you to remember what you had for breakfast eight Saturdays ago. [10:54] But when it comes to over the course of the year to now, [10:58] we talked about this a little after last round. [11:00] John Quell said during the season there was a moment where you guys looked internally [11:04] and realized, like, what the gap was, what was missing. [11:07] Do you feel like you closed it and things just didn't play in your favor [11:11] or that there's still room to go? [11:13] Like, was this process right and things didn't shake out right? [11:16] I don't think you can ever fully close it. [11:18] Like, there's always going to be, like, the best collaboration you can have with your – [11:24] and I know we talk a lot about the big three. [11:26] I don't love it because, like, I mean, Leo's phenomenal. [11:28] We have other players on the way. [11:30] So, I mean, I would argue that. [11:33] You know, we have a full team of people who can really play. [11:37] But I will say you're always trying to improve. [11:40] And there's things we learned along the way that probably as a staff and players [11:44] we hadn't even thought about. [11:46] We're like, hey, this works. [11:47] Like, you just continue to evolve. [11:49] You continue to evolve. [11:50] And I think at this point, like, we know exactly who we are. [11:53] We knew how we wanted to attack. [11:55] And we were really comfortable doing so. [11:59] Hey, Coach. Sorry it didn't go your way tonight. [12:01] Once you addressed the team for the final time in the locker room in a game situation, [12:04] what was your message to the group? [12:06] And what's your message to the Liberty fan base at this point as well? [12:09] Yeah, similar to what I've already said. [12:12] I just told them how proud I am. [12:13] We fought so hard. [12:14] Fought so hard. [12:15] And we wanted it. [12:17] We wanted it for the locker room. [12:18] We wanted it for our fans. [12:19] Our fans are incredible. [12:20] I mean, just the energy walking around the city the last two days. [12:23] Like, go get them. [12:24] Go get them. [12:25] Go get them. [12:26] This is a passionate fan base. [12:28] And they deserve a team that's going to compete for championships. [12:32] And I think, again, we have the right group. [12:36] And we just have to continue to improve. [12:38] And I can't say enough. [12:40] I can't say enough about how hard we fought. [14:54] I'll wait for Sab to sit over here. [15:00] Obviously, the season didn't end the way you all wanted to. [15:04] This is the second straight season that you all end in the sweep. [15:08] How would you evaluate Chris DiMarco's system? [15:12] And do you think that it allowed you all to play to your fullest potential? [15:19] And do you think that Jonathan Cole put together the right roster this season [15:24] for you all to be successful? [15:26] I think that's just a really tough question to answer right now. [15:32] You know, just a lot of emotions and a crazy series. [15:38] And, you know, I think obviously this year was a lot of ups and downs. [15:43] And, you know, it didn't go the way that we planned. [15:47] There was a lot of adversity, obviously a lot of newness. [15:50] And, you know, I'd say the way that we handled it was really impressive. [15:56] Everyone, like, showing up, being professional, understanding we had a really good opportunity. [16:01] And, you know, it didn't end up the way that we wanted to. [16:04] But, you know, other than that, like, I'm not really sure, you know, what anything's going to look like. [16:13] But obviously, like, the group that we have, us three up here, kind of poured our hearts [16:18] into trying to make this work for this organization and this fan base that showed up for us [16:23] through all the highs and lows of the season. [16:26] Stewie, what was the difference tonight? [16:30] I mean, you guys played hard as hell. [16:32] And Coach gave you his praise for how hard you guys played and just came up one basket short. [16:37] What was that difference tonight in that fourth quarter? [16:39] I think you went probably six minutes without a basket after Sabrina's three, gave you a five-point lead. [16:44] So the difference in what? [16:48] What is the difference, like, tonight in the fourth where you guys just can get over the hump? [16:53] Yeah, I mean, I think we were happy with our looks. [16:57] We got a lot of good looks. [16:58] I missed, like, a bunny to tie the game, which really sucks. [17:04] But I think that, you know, the way that we still continue to be connected with one another, you know, [17:10] knowing that we had good shots on rim, trying to get rebounds and get out. [17:15] You know, we talk about the turnovers and we handled that pretty well today. [17:20] But Atlanta's a tough team. [17:22] And obviously, you know, tons of credit to them for really, you know, making it tough for us every single night. [17:32] And, you know, wish them the best in the finals. [17:34] I've got two if that's all right. [17:37] John Quell, first for you. [17:39] What sort of went through your mind during those final seconds when you knew that this was it? [17:45] I mean, a little bit of disbelief. [17:51] I feel like no matter what, like, what situation we're in, I believe in our group [17:56] and I believe in our fight to be able to kind of, you know, claw back and kind of set things in motion [18:03] to be able to change the series. [18:04] So, you know, we came into this game obviously not looking too far ahead, [18:10] but fully expecting to be able to force it to five and be back in Atlanta playing for an opportunity [18:15] to go back to the final. [18:16] So this is just a tough pill to swallow obviously. [18:19] And I don't know, I think we just, we know how talented we are. [18:23] And for us, you know, every year is about being able to play for and ultimately win a championship. [18:29] And we fell short this year. [18:31] Sabrina, for you, this is now the second year in a row that you guys don't make it to the WNBA Finals. [18:37] I guess just how do you reflect on that very fact and how much going forward is that what you and your two teammates, [18:48] that that's what you want to do? [18:51] Yeah, I mean, it's not just go there, it's win. [18:53] That's the standard that we've set as the players here, as an organization, [18:59] is to compete every single year and try to bring championship here. [19:03] And we fell short and obviously the league is continuing to grow. [19:07] The league is continuing to get better. [19:09] It's not easy to get there. [19:10] And I think we understand that and every game is really important. [19:13] And the way you position yourself and seating and all that, like, is important. [19:21] Like starting on the road is hard. [19:22] I don't think we've, you know, we've done that in the semis before. [19:25] So, you know, I think for us the mission and goal is going to stay the same year in and year out. [19:31] And obviously that's continuing to represent this organization and fight for New York's second championship. [19:37] Just because these have been designated as excellent interviews, [19:43] I just need to ask a little bit bigger picture question for each of you. [19:46] Chris has said his expectation is that he will return next year for each of you. [19:51] Is it your hope and belief that Chris returns as head coach? [19:54] You know, that's not our say. [19:58] Our job is to go out there and play good basketball and represent the organization well, [20:02] represent the fan base well and our families. [20:05] And, you know, I think we do a good job of focusing on that. [20:08] And, you know, it is what it is. [20:10] Sabrina and Stewie, for each of you. [20:13] Yeah, I mean, I think a little bit of what Jay said. [20:17] Obviously, that's, you know, not our decision. [20:21] And, I mean, we're thankful for everything that he's done this year. [20:26] Obviously, just focusing on the now, the way he's poured into us and stayed positive, [20:32] level-headed through kind of the ups and downs of this season as well. [20:35] That didn't go the way that he wanted, you know, either. [20:37] And so, I mean, I don't know what's going to happen. [20:40] And regardless, I mean, thankful for him coaching us this year [20:46] and obviously giving us a chance and we just fell short. [20:49] And Stewie? [20:50] Yeah, I think it's just tough to kind of talk or think about that right now, [21:00] echoing what they said. [21:01] Like, obviously, those decisions aren't ours. [21:06] But I think, like, my focus and what I'm thinking about right now is just, like, [21:13] missed opportunity. [21:15] You know what I mean? [21:16] Like, really thinking about the opportunity. [21:20] And, you know, you said, like, yeah, we went to the finals two years in a row [21:24] and haven't gone since. [21:25] But it's really hard to get to the finals. [21:28] It's really hard to win the WBA championship. [21:30] And I feel like because we did it, we went there twice early on. [21:35] It was almost like, oh, this is going to be an every-year thing. [21:38] Like, you guys know, like, this shit isn't easy. [21:41] And it's like when you get there and when you win, you can't take it for granted. [21:49] You know, I feel like that's what I remember Sue telling me all the time. [21:51] Like, don't take it for granted when you get here, when you get to this moment. [21:54] Because you don't know if you'll be able to get back. [21:57] And I feel like for us, we're not taking that for granted. [22:00] Of course, we want to win a championship every single time we step on the court. [22:03] But it's really hard in this league. [22:07] And in order to do that, you need to have a consistent – like, [22:11] you need to be consistent for the full 44 games. [22:13] And now it's going to be 50 and whatever. [22:15] And I think that – I don't think we were consistent throughout the season. [22:20] I think that we started to like, you know, show some life and peak a little bit [22:25] towards the end and really in the playoffs. [22:29] But you can't like – this is not like cramming for a test. [22:36] You know what I mean? [22:37] Like, you've got to be like ready and ready to go since the jump. [22:41] Thank you all. [22:43] Sorry to go on your question. [22:46] But that sort of reminded me of – [22:50] Hey, Stewie, over here. [22:51] Thank you. [22:53] Good to go. [22:54] Stewie, can you take us through that last possession? [22:56] I know you said you missed the bunny. [22:57] Yeah. [22:58] But can you share what you were trying to get to? [23:00] If you liked the look and second, as a leader on the team, you know, [23:03] did you have a final message before you guys came and talked to us? [23:06] Yeah. [23:07] You know, we were down two, 17 seconds left. [23:12] And I wanted to kind of get downhill and get over one of my shoulders, you know. [23:18] And I had Nas backing up, you know, obviously a good defender. [23:23] But I felt like I was able to elevate and like get my head on the rim. [23:28] I think that I need to just have a little bit better touch [23:31] when you're going off the backboard. [23:33] But, you know, those are the positions that you want to be in. [23:37] You know, that's the shot that I want to take. [23:39] And it hurts because, you know, you don't always make those shots. [23:46] But you need to continue to kind of keep going. [23:50] And my message to the team was just really proud of the group. [23:56] Just from like I feel like there was a lot going on, you know, [24:01] highs and lows, injuries and not, and this, that, and the other. [24:05] And the way that we still stayed together. [24:07] We stayed connected. [24:08] You know, nobody went on little islands or things like that. [24:11] Like everybody showed up and was, was professional. [24:13] And, um, every time we were going to be here, [24:16] we were going to fight and fight together. [24:18] So that, that was my message is, you know, [24:20] not like obviously remembering how this feeling this feels, [24:25] but don't forget like what we were able to do. [24:29] And, you know, every year is hard. [24:31] And this year was just a different type of hard. [24:33] Thank you. [24:37] Sabrina, I have one for you. [24:38] And then for all three of you, please. [24:40] Um, I want to ask you about the, the rookies you were able to play with in the backcourt. [24:44] Can you talk to me about Pauline and, and Maureen Fatouk? [24:48] I mean, absolutely amazing. [24:52] You know, what, what they were able to do for us all year. [24:56] Obviously, Pauline, um, as a rookie who came in and earned her spot, like starting and, um, [25:03] um, picked up players full court, you know, just learned the offense with a really veteran team [25:10] and, and kind of just found her voice and consistently got in the paint for us [25:14] and, and helped us win so many games. [25:16] And so, um, sky's the limit for her. [25:18] Like it was really fun for, I know for us to just watch her growth over the year. [25:22] And, um, I mean, Maureen, who, who came in, uh, as a development player. [25:28] And I think you saw like what she's able to do. [25:31] She hasn't played basketball in a year, you know, coming back from an injury [25:34] and to be able to, to witness the hard work that she put in all through training camp, [25:38] every single day. [25:40] It's a testament of just the, the players that we have here, their love for the game, [25:43] their love for this organization, but also just how everyone's so important. [25:46] And, um, for me, I was really excited when they came here, um, [25:50] because I've watched their game and, and just understand how young they are, [25:53] but how smart they are. [25:54] And, um, you know, to be able to see them both kind of get their flowers, um, [25:59] this year playing was really exciting. [26:01] Thank you. [26:02] And again, for all three of you, JJ, Sab and Stewie, um, at some point in the season, [26:09] at least once in the season, you each have taken accountability and responsibility [26:14] for specific things at different points in time. [26:17] So the question that I have for all three of you is what are the lessons in leadership [26:22] that you at this moment at least can take from this season? [26:28] Think about that one for a second. [26:29] Let me go first. [26:30] Um, I think, um, you know, I've been, I've been, I think I told some of you guys, [26:38] like I have like three things that I've really been trying to like focus on this year. [26:42] And, um, it's like being present, you know, controlling what I can control and, um, detaching from judgment. [26:48] And I think that, you know, all three of those things obviously can work in your everyday life, [26:54] especially when you have kids. [26:55] But, um, here too with this group, you know, making sure that, uh, we continue to focus on the now. [27:02] We, we, you know, we, we don't forget, we don't think about what happened last game [27:08] or whatever the case may be. [27:09] And, um, really just being where our feet are and not worrying about anybody else except our circle. [27:14] So I think like those things were, were things that, um, I was definitely like, those are my things this year for sure. [27:21] Uh, so I just wanted to. [27:25] Oh, sorry. [27:26] Go ahead. [27:27] Come on. [27:28] No, you go. [27:29] Come on leadership things. [27:30] Um, I mean, I, I think for me definitely, um, this year was different. [27:35] Like I've never missed the first month of a season and, um, and you know, had two injuries that I was having to focus on and try and get back. [27:43] And obviously I think a leadership role really tested me. [27:46] Um, cause normally you're able to come in and you're able to play. [27:49] And I think there's a different type of leadership that you need to have when you're not out there playing and you see the game differently. [27:55] And I think for me, it was learning how I can continue to like pour into my teammates and, and find ways to, to help them even when I wasn't playing. [28:03] And then, um, obviously when I came back, like I kind of still wasn't myself, but understanding like my voice still holds a lot of gravity and especially with like the younger players and, and trying to have them feel confident and comfortable. [28:16] And, um, you know, that was a new thing for me because I've never missed that much time and something that I've, I've kind of learned how to continue to improve on and, um, we'll be better equipped the next time. [28:26] Hopefully it doesn't happen, but the next time it happens. [28:29] Yeah. I mean, I think for me, it wasn't really anything too new. [28:35] I just wanted to be able to, to be consistent in what I was bringing every day as a leader. [28:39] Um, I think that Stewie and Sab are like really good vocal leaders. [28:44] And so I just try to find a, a space where I can continue to, to help everybody else and, and pull everybody else along. [28:53] And for me, it's just about like personal relationships, checking in on people, making sure everybody's good, making sure everybody feels like they're a part of what we have going on as a team and as an organization. [29:03] And, um, this year I was just dealing with like the adversity, um, you know, dealing with the inconsistency, trying to get us on the right track as, as, as the leadership group. [29:13] Um, yeah, I think, I think those things are the things that I, you know, tried to focus on this year. [29:18] And then I think also too, like I've been talking about it a lot, but just like, I think Stewie said detachment, but mine was like detachment, [29:25] but a little bit more specific, like, like staying away from social media and, you know, staying away from the comment sections. [29:31] Cause you know, one day they love you, one day they hate you. [29:33] And, um, you know, just kind of centering myself, you know, with other things and, and staying outside of that. [29:40] Uh, Stewie wanted to follow up on something you said, um, when you were asked earlier about the coaching staff. [29:47] Um, when you were saying it's not like cramming for a test, can you kind of expand on what you mean by that? [29:52] And does that mean you felt like at times the team wasn't prepared potentially? [29:56] No, like just meaning like you can't, like with a lot of changes and people being in and out and whatever, [30:02] you can't just automatically be like, Oh, like it's going to work. [30:06] You know what I mean? [30:07] Like it, it takes time and, um, time wasn't really on our side here. [30:12] You know, we, we, yeah, we have some like four of us who, how many total four, five, how many, how many returners do we have from the championship? [30:27] I don't know, like four, you know, like we have those four and those four are, are, are starting four out of five. [30:36] And, um, that, that kind of experience can only do so much. [30:42] And I feel like we just needed more time. [30:44] Brianna, do you feel like, um, I know that you don't make the roster decisions or anything, but as a key rock, like you, you have an important voice on this team is what I'm trying to say. [30:56] Um, do you feel like the personnel that you have on this team is enough or are there like changes that need to happen? [31:03] Um, honestly, like, is this, is this team enough to win a championship? [31:10] Absolutely. [31:11] Um, and, and I believe that like a thousand percent, um, at the same time, like with the expansion, with, um, the increased salaries and stuff like that, [31:23] it's, it's hard to keep a good team together, you know, because people are going to go get paid. [31:28] And, uh, I don't know off the top of my head, who's like a free agent and who's restricted and who's not. [31:33] But, um, like that's where it's gonna, it's, it's a good problem to have in this league, because that means people are really getting appreciated for their value and stuff like that. [31:42] But, um, you're not able to, to keep them all. [31:45] Sabrina, now that the season's over, um, how much was your back like bothering you over the course of the past few months? [31:53] Um, yeah, I mean, a lot. [32:01] Um, you know, it, it was not a, an easy year for me, um, you know, physically, mentally, all the above. [32:08] And I mean, I'm thankful for my teammates. [32:10] Um, you know, everyone that kind of poured into me and, and kept me up. [32:14] Um, but obviously I'm, I'm looking forward to the off season to be able to like get right. [32:20] Brianna, when you have a year like this, an MVP caliber season, um, night in and night out, you're performing at your peak levels. [32:31] Yep. [32:32] What's the emotion when it ends like this? [32:36] Yeah. [32:38] Um, just, um, I guess like frustration. [32:48] You know what I mean? [32:49] Because I, I, I believe that no matter what, like cards are dealt, you can always like, I can always make something happen. [32:57] And, um, coming up short with the team really sucks. [33:00] Um, I think that, yeah, I think that it sucks. [33:07] I think that it's a missed opportunity. [33:09] And, um, I don't know, I was getting like a middle, a little bit emotional walking off the court with our fans because I know how much they like have our back and they really ride for us. [33:18] And, um, you know, um, my focus was today, like you should ask Marta, I was like, you can't talk to me about anything else except Friday. [33:25] Like if you want to talk about Saturday, I can't do it. [33:28] Um, but I wanted to just extend, you know, I wanted for us to, to continue to, to have a shot and extend this season and, um, play for our fans. [33:38] And I think that, um, I don't want to say we take them for granted. [33:44] You know what I mean? [33:45] Because I think the ones that have been here really knows how, know how much they mean to us. [33:49] And of course, I've got drafted to this franchise and I've seen it like really, um, get built from the ground up and, um, they, they deserve more too. [34:01] And, and that's, that's how I felt. [34:03] Um, and then just quickly, Chris talked earlier about teams like the dream, for example, playing a different level of, of basketball. [34:11] And, and teams like Golden State. [34:13] And so when you talk about roster construction, what, again, not your job, but what holes do you maybe see needing to be filled in this off season? [34:22] Um, um, I think that, uh, that's a tough question. [34:32] Um, you know, you see, you see Atlanta and, and they really just work well together. [34:37] I think that for us, it just took a while to find our identity and what we were going to do defensively and, and how we were going to kind of play with teams. [34:47] So, um, I don't, I'm not going to tell you exactly what this, what we need. [34:52] Uh, cause I just, I don't think that's appropriate, but, um, defense is, is really what, like people say, defense wins championships. [35:03] It's, it's fucking true. [35:04] It does. [35:05] And, um, Atlanta, they have three of the top players in the top three and steals, you know, and, um, it's, it's no compare and contrast because we're the New York Liberty, but like, um, we just needed to like really understand our identity a little bit better from the jump. [35:22] Obviously another just, uh, outstanding game, uh, back and forth and, uh, we just feel great that we were able to make the last couple of plays and that we get to be moving on to the finals. [37:16] Uh, we're really excited about it and I'm really proud of, uh, the way that our players competed, uh, pulled together and, uh, you know, held on to win. [37:26] My question is for Angel. [37:30] Um, congrats on the win, first of all. [37:32] Thank you. [37:33] Um, first time in your career that you've reached the W and Bay finals and just your third season. [37:37] Can you just talk about the journey that it took to get here, um, for this group and for you personally? [37:42] Yeah. [37:43] Um, just knowing I belong here, um, knowing coming to Atlanta, how much I wanted to help this team, um, and do whatever it takes, not just to get out of the first round, [37:52] not to just to get out the semis, um, but to make it to the finals and win a championship and the job is not done. [37:58] Um, we're definitely happy about where we are right now, but, um, we're not satisfied. [38:02] I think we just continue to push every single day, get back to work. [38:05] I'm sure Carl's not going to sleep tonight. [38:07] He's just talking about it. [38:08] Um, but yeah, we're going to enjoy this moment tonight. [38:10] Um, and we put a lot of work in for the season. [38:13] We, we can't shy away from knowing that we did put a lot of work to get to this moment. [38:18] I'm really proud of this group. [38:19] Hey, hey, Angel. [38:22] Um, can you take us a little bit through your brain as, as the last buzzer sounds? [38:27] You're the last person to leave the court, a lot of hugs. [38:29] And, and what was that moment like for you? [38:31] Cause you know, pregame, you're talking about manifesting and everything. [38:34] So what was that moment like for you? [38:36] Yeah, it was a tough game. [38:39] Um, the game felt long. [38:41] Um, and I knew how hard it was going to be playing in this environment. [38:45] Um, New York has a really great fan base and they didn't stop. [38:50] Um, no matter what the score was until that last buzzer, [38:53] it finally felt like I can finally breathe and take a breath and shout out to them. [38:58] Um, for always showing up for their team. [39:00] And I think that's really important in this league and as the league continues to grow, [39:03] but our team just stayed poised. [39:05] Um, and even when we did get that steal and we got it down and turned it over and came back, [39:12] we were still composed and it just shows you how mature this team is, [39:16] how mature this group is. [39:17] And I'm just really proud and happy. [39:20] And that's what that felt like after that last buzzer. [39:22] I have two questions. [39:26] First being for Angel. [39:27] Um, after that moment, I looked to my left and your mom was hugging someone. [39:32] And I know how important she has been to you in the, you know, on your journey. [39:35] Can you talk about, you know, just her support throughout your career and making it to this moment? [39:40] Yeah. [39:41] Um, being a single mom, um, raising me and my brother kind of by herself, [39:46] our grandparents were very helpful, but she did a lot of work on her own. [39:49] And for me to repay her by living through her, living through me, um, [39:54] and being able to just support me and show up. [39:56] That's all I asked for is support me, show up and love me and I'll give you the world. [40:00] Um, and that's, that's just her. [40:02] That's just who she is. [40:03] Um, she's not very hard on me, um, but she's very loving and she's very caring. [40:08] And she's really proud because she knows the dark moments that I've been through. [40:11] I can pick up the phone at three o'clock in the morning, call her crying. [40:14] And she's just been there for me. [40:16] And I'm just so thankful to have a mom like that. [40:18] Um, that's just constantly just being there for me and I don't take it for granted. [40:23] Thank you. [40:24] And Jordan, you're a two time WNBA champion. [40:26] Okay. [40:27] What sort of advice do you have, you know, for your teammates for Angel, you know, [40:31] this will be her first time in a WNBA finals? [40:34] Yeah, I think first and foremost, being proud of getting here. [40:38] It's really hard to get to the finals. [40:40] Um, but I think the biggest thing is you can't get too high, get too low in this moment. [40:45] You have to stay level and stay steady and we have to manage our emotions. [40:50] You know, we have, we want to enjoy this moment. [40:52] Um, we're very proud of getting here. [40:55] It took a lot of hard work, took staying together. [40:58] So being proud of getting there, but knowing that the job is not done, [41:02] but we can't get too high and too low. [41:04] We have to stay steady. [41:05] Uh, can the players talk a little bit about what it's like playing against, [41:09] uh, former teammates and friends and staying competitive and aggressive, [41:13] especially in the series? [41:15] None of that matters, um, when you get between those lines. [41:18] I think everybody knows that, um, on both teams. [41:21] Um, but at the end, the respect that's given, um, talking to JJ, [41:27] and she was just telling me to continue to compete. [41:30] Don't let anybody tell me not who, who I am. [41:32] Um, she really enjoys playing against me and watching me continue to grow. [41:36] Stewie also has always poured into me as well. [41:38] So for me as a younger player, um, I always soak up those moments. [41:42] I don't take those for granted because they're both great players, [41:45] MVP players that have done a lot of great things, have won. [41:49] Um, and I've obviously won it in my career and be able to have the things that they have. [41:54] Um, so it's just admirable. [41:55] But when we get between those lines, it's literally war. [41:58] Uh, Angel, one for you and Coach, one for you. [42:01] Just, Angel, the fourth quarter defense, you held them out of a basket for over six minutes. [42:05] Just what were you guys doing that was so effective for that stretch? [42:08] And Coach, you guys have eight days off now for the next game. [42:11] Is it sort of good and bad that you're playing so well [42:13] and you have to take a break now for a while? [42:15] Um, just talking to the team and telling them the value of one. [42:19] We talked about that from day one of training camp. [42:21] We wrote that down in our notebooks about the value of one. [42:24] And Carl preached that every possession is going to matter. [42:27] Um, we had to value everyone. [42:29] We were in foul trouble. [42:30] I mean, shout out to Naz. [42:32] Naz just, she's so unselfish. [42:34] Like for her to be able to come in and out, um, and I don't think she fouled out. [42:40] Um, but she played great defense as best as she could on Stewie. [42:43] Um, and I'm just really proud. [42:44] She didn't score, but you can see on the, she just showed up in so many different ways. [42:48] That last possession, um, how she was able to just be able to guard her straight up. [42:53] I'm just really happy for her. [42:54] Um, and we, you, you need players like that on your team that just really get it [42:58] and understand it. [42:59] And I don't know what I would do without Naz Hillman. [43:01] Yeah. [43:02] Right. [43:04] Uh, you know, we're glad that we finished the series when we did cause, uh, New York [43:10] is full of some of the best competitors in the WNBA. [43:13] And, uh, the last thing we wanted to do is to get, have them have an opportunity to get [43:19] a win and feel some momentum. [43:21] And, uh, so we're glad we took care of it today. [43:24] That does mean there's going to be a little bit of a layoff. [43:26] And, you know, we're at the point right now where we'd like to be playing every couple [43:31] of days. [43:32] I mean, we were playing really well, but we will make the most of this time to be as [43:36] prepared as we can be, whoever our opponent is. [43:38] And, uh, uh, knowing the other two teams that are left, it should be just, uh, exceptional [43:44] finals. [43:45] It should be, uh, and, uh, I'm looking forward to watching our team compete in it because, [43:50] uh, uh, our team is full of competitors too. [43:53] Like, down the line, it's people that will do anything to win. [43:57] Angel? [44:00] Sorry. [44:01] Kind of a two part question for you. [44:02] Earlier this week in Atlanta, you were talking about how you have your vision boards, but it's [44:06] not something you talk about super publicly or often. [44:09] But then obviously with the tweet a year ago saying that you were thinking about the finals [44:14] and manifesting that, I'm just curious what goes into the decision a year ago to sort of put [44:18] that out publicly and put something that I assume was also on your vision board out for [44:22] sort of the world to see. [44:24] And the second part of it is, I believe that was the night of game four in the finals last [44:27] year. [44:28] I was curious if it was after the game or where you were when you tweeted that. [44:31] I think the timing might be on the tweet. [44:34] I don't know. [44:35] Um, but I was watching the game and when you sit at home, I've sat at home for the last [44:40] two years, um, and watched it. [44:42] And I kept saying, I texted Kyle and I was like, just give me one game in the playoffs. [44:47] Give me one game in the playoffs and have an opportunity to come to Atlanta. [44:52] Um, them wanting me in Atlanta and being able to push me every day to help me get to this [44:58] very moment. [44:59] Um, it's really a shout out to them. [45:01] I manifest a lot of things. [45:03] I think it's important to speak positive into your life, positive into your team. [45:07] Um, but this is all God. [45:11] Like I'm just, I'm just so thankful and I'm blessed, um, to be able to be in a situation. [45:17] A lot of people wish they were here. [45:19] Um, and I'm not going to take this moment for granted. [45:22] Um, I'm here for a reason. [45:23] We're all here for a reason. [45:24] Um, in chapel today, they talked about the moment, being able to maximize the moment. [45:29] Um, and we have a very praying group, group eight out of the 12 of our players go to chapel. [45:34] And we take that seriously. [45:35] Um, so I'm just really happy about the girls that are just in that locker room. [45:40] It's, it's, it's just really a blessing to be around them. [45:45] Congratulations to you all. [45:46] Um, this is sort of a two-parter, but for each of you, uh, Jordan, Angel, you have both [45:51] made explicit your desire to play, uh, to shoot the three more effectively. [45:56] Um, I'm curious for each of you, what it is about this coaching staff that you think [46:01] has allowed you to get to a point where you guys were three for five collectively together. [46:05] Tonight from, from three, effectively the difference in the game. [46:09] And Carl, for you, what is it about Jordan and Angel that have allowed them to add that [46:15] element to the game, to, uh, be so consistent from beyond the arc? [46:19] And how gratifying is it to have that be a difference maker tonight? [46:23] Yeah, I mean, the moment that Carl and the coaching staff got here, um, we were working [46:28] on threes, um, and he just talked about making one more three, um, every 25 shots would increase [46:35] your percentage. [46:36] Like, something that small. [46:37] Um, and we constantly worked on it, worked on it, worked on it. [46:40] And I think for me, just being confident in shooting those shots and knocking down those [46:44] shots, me and Cam, um, Brown have been relentless in being consistent in shooting the three after [46:51] practices, after shooting rounds, just staying in the moment, knowing what shots that I'm [46:56] going to get from the three, catch and shoot. [46:58] Um, and then just being confident in the games, knowing that I've worked on it tirelessly [47:02] for the last two years and even this year of continuing to put in the work. [47:06] And so I think it's just a testament to one, him believing in everybody can shoot the three [47:12] and working on working on it consistently. [47:15] And I think for me, just the confidence that I've had this year of being able to shoot. [47:20] Um, and when I'm open shooting, my teammates have encouraged me to keep shooting no matter [47:24] if I go zero for eight, just knowing that the next one is going in. [47:27] So that's just the mindset that I've had, um, this year is, you know, I've put in the work, [47:32] so let it fly. [47:33] I mean, for me, it's really hard for me to not want to rush success. [47:43] And Carl told me how patient I had to be with it. [47:47] I remember a very moment in training camp where we were going through drills, [47:51] and he stopped everybody and told me I had to make two in a row in front of everybody. [47:55] And you never want to shy down your teammates. [47:58] You never want to let your teammates down. [47:59] We couldn't resume the drill until I made the two in a row. [48:02] Um, and I was upset with him that day, um, for sure, because I didn't, [48:07] I didn't want to, I didn't want to let the team down. [48:09] I didn't want to feel embarrassed of how long it could have took me to make them. [48:12] But now it's like so easy. [48:15] Like my confidence is through the roof. [48:17] Like when I shoot him, like it just feels like practice. [48:20] And you have those tough times and you have those tough conversations. [48:24] Um, but it's a coach that really believes in you and he knows, [48:27] he knows what's best. [48:28] And I'm really thankful for him, um, for being able to help me with my career, [48:32] um, and help me be better for the team. [48:34] Because I don't think I would be in a situation and thriving as I am individually without him. [48:40] Uh, well, I'll, I'll start with JC. [48:45] Just, JC just wants to get better. [48:49] And she wants to be the best player she can possibly be. [48:52] And that includes shooting, but it's not limited to shooting. [48:55] Like this off season, she was the one who was like, I want to go over film. [48:59] And I want to go over this. [49:00] And this is why I want to become, you know, I want to get back to being the top assist [49:06] the turnover in the league. [49:08] I want to learn where do I get myself in trouble and where are there better options. [49:13] And like, she's taking notes. [49:15] She's paying attention to it. [49:17] Same thing with defense. [49:18] How can I make more plays? [49:20] And, uh, and the same, she has the same mindset for shooting. [49:26] Like, okay, this is the next step in my game. [49:28] I'm going to put the work in. [49:29] And when you have somebody like that, it's just contagious with other people on the team. [49:34] You know how serious they are about being the best they can possibly be. [49:39] So I really appreciate JC. [49:41] And then Angel, I gotta, and I can remember her being mad at me. [49:48] But, uh, you, I think you have to understand you're, you're at the W level and we changed [49:59] her shot like completely. [50:01] And then we asked her to do it in games. [50:03] And like we talked about it and we said, you know, the first, before the all-star break, [50:08] you're still going to shoot these open threes. [50:10] This is how we want you to shoot it. [50:11] It's not going to be a good percentage. [50:13] After the all-star break, it's going to start to get better. [50:15] By the time we get to the end of the season, it'll start to feel really comfortable. [50:19] Um, so you have to, had to go through all those growing pains. [50:23] And that is not to do that in front of everybody. [50:27] And that's the reason why I had her do it in front of her teammates is like, [50:30] you're going to have to get comfortable shooting this ball in front of people. [50:34] And it's brand new to you. [50:37] It's not comfortable to you. [50:38] And she just stuck with it. [50:40] And then I really think once we have one off season to really, you know, [50:44] concentrate on it, uh, the sky's the limit. [50:47] Like it's a lot more comfortable already. [50:49] And once we can really have the time just to dedicate ourselves to a couple things, [50:54] I mean, what she's capable of becoming is just, it's going to be amazing. [50:59] Uh, oh. [51:00] Yeah. Well, she had two, right? [51:03] Yeah. [51:04] All right. [51:05] Uh, guys, uh, congratulations to you all. [51:10] This isn't my question, but Angel, do you remember how many free throws it took [51:14] for you to hit those two free throws in a row? [51:16] The threes. [51:17] Oh, these were threes. [51:19] These were threes. [51:20] Oh, threes. [51:21] These are all threes. [51:22] These are all threes. [51:23] Yeah. [51:24] All threes. [51:25] You have to make two in a row. [51:26] Yeah. [51:27] Okay. [51:28] So how many? [51:29] I don't know. [51:30] It wasn't that many. [51:31] Yeah. [51:32] It wasn't that many. [51:33] The threes are cheering, yelling on the sideline, but I was pretty embarrassed. [51:37] And yeah. [51:38] We could tell she was mad. [51:40] Just trying to keep encouraging her. [51:42] Uh, my question, uh, for coach and then ladies, you can chime in. [51:45] Um, Alicia Gray goes out and Izzy Borlays in 33 minutes scores 21 points in games two [51:51] and three combined. [51:52] Um, what did you see in Isabel that allowed her for a team that's really only going six [51:58] deep with her being number six to do what she did in games two and three? [52:02] And ladies, you can chime in on what your impressions of, uh, Izzy. [52:05] Yeah. [52:06] The, the first thing I said in the locker room today, uh, was that I don't think we win [52:11] either of the last two games without the production we got from Izzy. [52:14] Like she, you know, she's grown a lot this year. [52:17] Uh, she's a lot of, uh, she's really built her confidence. [52:21] I think the, you know, the world cup break, she had a great world cup. [52:25] I think she kind of, that kind of built her up even a little bit more. [52:29] And, uh, she's going to be a tremendous player in this league. [52:34] I mean, we're talking about, I think she's still 21, 21 year old rookie. [52:38] And, you know, the last two games, she's really stepped up. [52:42] And, uh, we're looking for her to continue that through the finals. [52:46] Yeah. [52:48] Um, I've tried to pour into Izzy as much as possible, um, throughout the whole season. [52:54] And she has been very confident of, you know, getting timely buckets, [52:58] getting stops when we need her to, and just coming in and doing her job. [53:02] And she's been very poised as a rookie and very composed of taking her shots, [53:06] making the right decisions at the right time, and just shooting the ball with confidence. [53:10] And so, during this series when Leish went down, like she stepped up big. [53:15] And we've encouraged her to just play her game and, and not feel like there's so much pressure for her [53:20] to come in and try to do too much, to just continue to play her game. [53:23] And the last two games, she has come up huge for us. [53:27] Um, when she came in this time, she was attacking the basket, making the right reads. [53:32] Um, and I feel like a lot of people sleep on Izzy. [53:35] But, you know, that's to our advantage, honestly. [53:39] And so, just really proud of, of her continuing to, to stay confident in these moments. [53:45] And, you know, we're going to need her for sure going into the finals. [53:49] But, just really happy for the work that she has put in and the, and the poise that she's had as a rookie. [53:54] And just contributing and, and impacting this team when she's coming off the bench. [53:59] Hi, I have one for Carl and a couple for Angel. [54:05] Uh, Carl, I'll start with you. [54:07] You guys won the possession battle again today. [54:09] Um, I'm curious if when Angel first came to the team, like her ability to rack up steals, deflections, [54:16] and obviously the rebounding, did you talk to her about, like, unlocking how much extra possessions that could create? [54:24] To, to be honest, we, this was part of the plan before we got Angel. [54:29] And then when we found out Angel was available, it's like, well, this is really going to make some of these goals a lot easier to attain. [54:35] We got, you know, the best offensive rebounder, maybe one of the best in the history of this league. [54:42] And, uh, and her ability to make defensive plays and steals. [54:46] So, like, the whole thing that we were thinking about making the next step for the dream [54:52] and being able to make deep runs in the playoffs, uh, you know, uh, that was the plan. [54:58] And then we added the perfect piece to really bring that plan to life. [55:03] And, uh, Angel's been, you know, everything that we could have hoped for. [55:07] And then, um, for Angel, there was obviously, like, there was, uh, the moment where, you know, Sabrina hit Izzy, [55:13] and then you kind of went and, you know, had her back and then, you know, the fans got into it. [55:17] You've talked about, like, composure. [55:18] And then you also had a moment, uh, where you're telling everybody to calm down. [55:21] We had the free throw line. [55:22] I'm just curious, like, what do you channel in those moments to actually be able to, like, compose yourself [55:26] and, like, use that energy the right way? [55:28] Really for me, like, I have my highs and my lows. [55:33] Um, it'll definitely get to a moment like that where I'm on my high and then I'll come to the bench and be like, manage our, [55:40] manage our emotions and the team is looking like, you saying that? [55:45] Um, so that was one of those moments right there. [55:48] Um, I think for the free throw line, I've been super confident throughout the whole entire playoffs [55:52] with just stepping up to the line and knocking it down. [55:54] Um, like I said, this, this arena, I mean, they are very supportive. [55:58] They're very loud. [55:59] Um, so just being able to step up and be confident, um, and that is just what I was just doing. [56:04] Um, Angel, you've talked about your relationship with Dewana Bonner before. [56:09] Um, what does her presence mean in a game like this with a trip to the finals on the line? [56:14] Yeah, one thing about DB, um, she keeps it real and, um, she keeps us humble. [56:21] That's what I can say. [56:22] And you need that in the locker room, especially for, I mean, for myself. [56:27] This is my first time ever going to the finals and we were all happy. [56:31] And then she was like, y'all, I've been to the finals and got swept before. [56:34] Like, you can't get too high. [56:36] And I'm like, wait, but like, this is my first time. [56:38] This is my first time, but you need that. [56:40] Like, you need that, those tough conversations in the locker room because we aren't satisfied. [56:44] Like, we want more. [56:45] And I'm really grateful for her, um, for that because she just pushes us to the next, next, next level. [56:51] And, um, being able to get her, um, she just meant everything to us, especially at the timing of Leish going down. [56:57] Um, and her stepping up and then Izzy stepping up. [57:00] Like, it's just perfect timing, um, for everything. [57:03] She's a great vet. [57:04] Um, we have a lot of funny times on the court, but yeah, she's great. [57:08] Hey Jordan, real quick, I want to go back to, uh, the start of the fourth quarter. [57:13] Um, can you share a little bit what was said coming out of, of the break as you guys go into that final fourth quarter? [57:19] And you had that five point stretch where you guys took the lead and never gave it back. [57:23] What was kind of going through your mind and how you want to approach everything at that moment? [57:27] Because it was kind of, um, they had finally gotten back up and, you know, it was kind of winning time or whatever you want to call it. [57:34] Yeah, when I went in the huddle, I said, we're going to have to earn it, you know? [57:37] Um, this is a really good team. [57:39] New York's a really good team and they're going to fight till the end. [57:42] And so we just got to want it more. [57:44] We got to bring that energy. [57:45] We got to play Atlanta Dream basketball, but we're going to have to earn it. [57:49] And, you know, we did that down the stretch. [57:51] You know, we came out in fourth quarter. [57:53] Um, I kind of got going a little bit. [57:55] And then I think that just trickled down to the whole team, able to get some stops. [57:59] Um, and it was a back and forth, honestly. [58:01] But at the end of the day, again, valuing possessions, managing our emotions is what we've talked about all season. [58:08] And in the, in that moment, you know, that's what you have to do. [58:11] And so I think we did an exceptional job of getting stops when we need it most. [58:15] Getting timely buckets when we needed it most. [58:17] And just being poised and composed in that moment. [58:21] And I know that also starts with me. [58:23] Um, I've been really trying to manage my emotions. [58:25] You know, the playoffs is, is a really high intensity atmosphere. [58:30] And so sometimes your emotions can get away from you. [58:33] But I think being, um, one of the leaders on this team and, you know, they're calling me the engine. [58:38] I know it starts with me. [58:39] So I have to make sure that I'm composed and poised at all times. [58:42] Um, and knowing that when, if I'm steady, I know that the rest of the team can be steady. [58:47] So that was just what the message that I gave to the team coming into the fourth. [58:51] Thank you. [58:52] Thank you. [58:53] Thank you. [58:54] Thank you.