Fit Jonquel Jones ready to participate fully as training camp begins for Liberty

Jonquel Jones Returns to New York Liberty with Optimism

Jonquel Jones, a center for the Liberty, had her doubts about the WNBA season starting on schedule due to ongoing negotiations around the collective bargaining agreement. However, when it came to her future team, there was no indecision—she’s back in New York.

When asked if leaving the Liberty was on her mind this offseason, Jones replied, “It just didn’t make sense.” As an unrestricted free agent, she had plenty of options, but the 2024 WNBA Finals MVP fully believes in what the Liberty is building and just recently signed a three-year deal worth roughly $3.75 million.

This contract aligns with those of her fellow stars, Brianna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, who also signed three-year contracts with similar cap structures.

Interestingly, Jones realized she couldn’t recall arriving at a WNBA training camp so well-rested. Initially, she had plans to play in Turkey over the offseason, but a right ankle surgery in October sidelined her. After spraining the same ankle twice last season, she ended up missing a month of play.

She spent much of her offseason in the Bahamas, enjoying time with family and soaking up the sun while also focusing on her rehab. “I think,” she noted about returning to New York, “I’m ready. I’m looking forward to the season.”

Last year, Jones managed to average 15.7 points and 11.3 rebounds in her first six games before her injury. She ended the season with averages of 13.6 points, 8.1 rebounds, and 2.7 assists across 31 games. Staying healthy and playing hard are among her personal goals for the upcoming season.

When it comes to her team aspirations, Jones made it clear: “Obviously, we can win again. That’s the big thing. I think we have the team that we’ve built and some of the guys we have back from last year. We can compete at a high level, so we’re still aiming for that.”

Meanwhile, Bethnia Laney Hamilton, who missed the previous season due to a knee injury, expressed her joy at returning to the court without limitations. “Condition-wise, everything is great,” she stated, recalling her significant contributions to Liberty’s title pursuit last year. “I’m still getting used to all the movements and everything, but I’m not in pain… I feel like it’s some of the best I’ve felt overall coming back.”