Skip to content

NY Liberty fostering ardent basketball devotees among the young generation

Throngs of families are heading towards Barclays Center, ignited by the Liberty's unprecedented postseason journey, stirring up a feverish fan excitement.

New York Liberty cultivating a new wave of dedicated basketball enthusiasts
New York Liberty cultivating a new wave of dedicated basketball enthusiasts

NY Liberty fostering ardent basketball devotees among the young generation

New York Liberty Fans Show Unwavering Support Amid Playoff Tension

The New York Liberty, a WNBA team based in Brooklyn, have been captivating their fanbase with their exciting playoff run this season. The team, which won their first-ever WNBA championship last year, has been attracting a diverse crowd of fans, from families to couples, students, and celebrities.

One such dedicated family is the Hesses, who have been season-ticket holders for the past two years. Twelve-year-old twins Billie and Cassie Hess, along with their father, Rob Hess, make the journey from Yonkers to Barclays Center for each game, dressed in matching seafoam green tunics and crowns. Their mother, Kim Wiley-Schwartz, and her 23-year-old daughter wear matching seafoam tutus to the games. The family's game-day meal consists of jerk chicken, onion rings, and lemonade.

The seating section of Wiley-Schwartz wears Batman masks in honor of team guard Natasha Cloud, adding a playful touch to the intense playoff atmosphere. Some fans, like Tony Fang, recently became Liberty fans and brought their pets in team gear to the game, showing their unwavering support.

The Liberty's fanbase is deeply invested in both wins and the team's representation. The team reflects its fanbase by celebrating Brooklyn's Caribbean communities and partnering with the Lesbian Herstory Archive. Frankie Pokorny, a Newark resident, finds it affirming to see openly queer athletes on the Liberty court.

The Liberty's move to Barclays Center and the arrival of mascot Ellie the Elephant have boosted the team's visibility. The Brooklyn Public Library even issued special-edition Liberty library cards earlier this summer.

However, the playoffs have not been without their challenges. Star players such as Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu have missed games due to health reasons, and Stewart sustained a knee injury in Game 1 of the playoffs but returned for Game 2. Despite these setbacks, the team fought hard, but unfortunately, they lost Game 2 to the Phoenix Mercury, forcing a decisive Game 3 in Phoenix.

Prominent people regularly seen at New York Liberty home games include various celebrities and public figures, but specific regular attendees are not explicitly documented in the available search results. Regardless, the energy and spirit of the fans remain undeterred, ready to cheer on their team in the final game of the playoffs.

As the Liberty take the court for Game 3, their fans will be there, donning Batman masks, seafoam green tunics, and crowns, ready to support their team every step of the way. The New York Liberty's playoff run is more than just a game; it's a testament to the power of community and the enduring spirit of Brooklyn.

Read also:

Latest