How New York Liberty Became the Hottest Team in Town

The New York Liberty: Rise of the City’s Best Team

From left: Stefanie Dolson, Marine Johannès, Kayla Thornton, Breanna Stewart, Courtney Vandersloot, Jonquel Jones, Betnijah Laney, Nyara Sabally, Jocelyn Willoughby and Sabrina Ionescu in the Liberty weight room at Barclays Center. Photo: Dina Litovsky

It’s been a rough month for New York sports fans. Both the Mets’ and Yankees’ seasons have collapsed, the Giants suffered a devastating loss, and the Jets’ star quarterback Aaron Rodgers sustained a season-ending injury.

However, there is optimism and energy at Barclays Center, where the New York Liberty has had a breakthrough 32-8 season. The team’s performance is drawing unprecedented crowds and has reinvigorated the atmosphere for professional basketball in the city.

At a recent game, the sellout crowd was filled with optimism and bravado. Attendees like Trent King, a devoted fan, expressed their unwavering support for the Liberty, hailing them as the best team in New York.

The team’s exhilarating season has seen record-breaking performances from star player Sabrina Ionescu, and head coach Sandy Brondello attests to the roaring energy of the home crowd, making Barclays Center a tough place for rival teams to play.

The Liberty’s rise comes after a period of rebuilding, with new ownership and strategic player acquisitions, resulting in a dramatic transformation for the franchise. The addition of star players Jonquel Jones, Courtney Vandersloot, and Breanna Stewart has elevated the team’s level of play, making them a formidable force in the league.

The team’s success has not only reinvigorated New York’s basketball scene but has also contributed to the growing popularity of women’s sports. As the Liberty continues its strong playoff push, there’s a good chance of setting new WNBA viewership records, and the city seems hungry for a championship.

The electrifying atmosphere at Liberty games goes beyond world-class basketball, with entertaining mascots and celebrity appearances adding to the excitement. The close-knit camaraderie between fans, players, and the game itself makes attending Liberty games a uniquely intimate and exhilarating experience.

As the Liberty continues to compete for a championship, the city is embracing the team with open arms, hungry for victory. The rise of the Liberty is not just about sports, but a testament to the growing presence and impact of women’s sports in New York City.

This content can be found in the September 25, 2023, issue of New York Magazine. Subscribe now for unlimited access to our coverage and to support our journalism.

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Rachel Adams

Rachel Adams is your WNBA insider, delivering comprehensive coverage of women’s basketball. With a commitment to highlighting the talent and achievements of WNBA players, she provides game analysis, player profiles, and inspiring stories from the league.