WNBA · Eastern Conference · Brooklyn, New York, US · Barclays Center
New York Liberty
The 2024 WNBA champions, the New York Liberty finally broke through after decades of heartbreak, capturing their first title behind Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and the electric atmosphere of Barclays Center.
1997–2019
Decades of Heartbreak
Finals losses and the wait for a title
The New York Liberty were one of the WNBA's original eight teams in 1997 and quickly became one of the league's most prominent franchises. But championship success proved elusive - the Liberty lost in the WNBA Finals four times without winning. Despite featuring stars like Teresa Weatherspoon, Becky Hammon, and Tina Charles, the Liberty could never quite break through.
Key Facts
- One of the WNBA's eight founding franchises in 1997
- Lost in the WNBA Finals four times without winning
- Featured stars including Teresa Weatherspoon and Becky Hammon
- Played at Madison Square Garden for much of their early history
2020–Present
Championship at Last
A new home, new stars, and a first title
The Liberty's modern renaissance began with a move to Barclays Center and aggressive roster building. The acquisitions of Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, combined with the development of Sabrina Ionescu, gave the Liberty a championship-caliber core. After falling to the Las Vegas Aces in the 2023 Finals, the Liberty returned in 2024 and captured their first title, defeating the Minnesota Lynx in a thrilling five-game series. Barclays Center has become one of the most electric venues in women's basketball.
Key Facts
- Won the 2024 WNBA Championship, defeating the Minnesota Lynx 3-2
- Breanna Stewart signed as a free agent, transforming the roster
- Sabrina Ionescu became a global basketball icon
- Barclays Center sellouts became the norm during the championship run