The Liberty’s title defense ended early.

In a winner-take-all Game 3 in the first round in Phoenix, the Liberty attempted to claw back on Friday after falling into an early hole, but they eventually succumbed to the Mercury, 79-73.

New York’s season, which started with a nine-game win streak after climbing the mountain last year, comes to an end before the second round of the playoffs.

Breanna Stewart, battling through a knee injury, led the way for the Liberty with 30 points, and Sabrina Ionescu dropped 22.

But the supporting cast did not do enough to add supplemental scoring.

Instead of a 2024 WNBA Finals rematch in the next round, it will be the Mercury who take on the Lynx as the Liberty pack their bags to head home.