UNCASVILLE, Conn. — On a sunny Sunday afternoon, Jonquel Jones embraced Kennedy Burke, pulling her in close. They swayed back and forth before the start of their final preseason game.
“I’m really happy,” Jones said, smiling broadly with her eyes shut for a brief moment.
After a warm hug, they walked along the sideline together, where Burke joined her new teammates on one end of the court, while Jones made her way to the other side to warm up with the Liberty.
Burke is still getting used to the slower pace of small-town Connecticut; it’s a stark contrast from the fast life in New York. Yet, being, as she describes herself, an “easy-going person,” she’s embracing it.
Having spent the last two seasons in New York, Burke recently secured a one-year contract worth $1 million with the Sun. She’s stepping into a role alongside Brittney Griner, helping to guide a youthful team in its final season in Connecticut before moving to Houston.
The opportunity to play with Griner, whom Burke admires greatly, was a significant factor for the 29-year-old guard-forward. However, Sun coach Rashid Mejian was also instrumental in bringing her to Connecticut, sharing his vision for the team.
Burke had previously played two seasons in France with Meziane, where she absorbed a lot of basketball insight. “They have players eager to compete and have fun. He’s young and energetic,” Burke shared.
Burke has had a solid run with Liberty, coming off her best season, averaging 8.1 points with impressive shooting stats: 46.8 percent from the field and 41.4 percent from three-point range.
She’s expected to take on a more significant role with the Suns, who have several younger players on the roster. “I’m excited about that,” Burke said. “I know I need to improve my leadership skills, but having another vet like BG around is beneficial. She sets a great example every day, during practices and games.”
However, facing her former teammates in an exhibition game brought mixed feelings. “Seeing familiar faces, friends from my time in New York, is always special,” Burke reflected. “You have to remember, at the end of the day, it’s business.”
The Sun will kick off their season at Barclays Center, and Burke is looking forward to the reunion. “I hope I don’t get too emotional; I know I will. But being back in Brooklyn is fantastic. The atmosphere is awesome, whether I’m playing for or against them.”
Roster cuts are coming.
Meanwhile, Liberty will be without Leoni Fievic and Raquel Carrera for the remainder of the season due to commitments with Valencia Basket. New York must also narrow down its roster to 12 players.
While the core lineup seems mostly settled, Sunday marked the last opportunity for some players to vie for the final developmental spot. “I think we’re close to finalizing things,” coach Chris DeMarco commented after the game. “There will be discussions to have.”
