Liberty gets an unexpected pregame visit from team legends

Liberty Players Honor Franchise Legends Before Game

LOS ANGELES — On a quiet Sunday morning, the Liberty players gathered in a hotel conference room, ready for what they assumed would be a standard pregame routine ahead of their game against the Sparks.

However, the meeting took an unexpected and memorable twist.

There were signs displayed on the screen, welcoming some of the recipients of the Liberty Ring of Honor.

Franchise greats such as Teresa Weatherspoon, Sue Wicks, Vicki Johnson, and Kim Hampton made an appearance, surprising the players.

The team continued with their usual preparation, reviewing scouting reports and watching films, but it was evident that the presence of these legends added a special touch.

Once the regular prep was over, the former players shared their thoughts on the significant progress the WNBA has made since their own playing days began 29 years ago on that very day.

“It was amazing,” guard Sabrina Ionescu remarked. “It’s really important to know who played here before and the impact they’ve had. I thought it was special to meet them, even though I’m familiar with some of them.”

Interestingly, when the WNBA launched on June 21, 1997, Liberty secured their first victory against the Sparks, winning 67-57. It’s also worth noting that eight current Liberty players weren’t even born when the league first began.

Yet, the significance of playing in Los Angeles on this anniversary was certainly felt by the current players, who are set to embark on a four-game series on the West Coast.

“That’s pretty cool,” said Marin Johannes. “This is a unique experience, and I feel lucky to be living it. I just want to soak it all in.”

Weatherspoon delivered some encouraging words to the Liberty, though she kept the specifics private, preferring not to disclose what was said in the locker room.

Meanwhile, Brianna Stewart shared that Weatherspoon emphasized the importance of “doing things the New York way.” What does that really entail?

Weatherspoon explained it succinctly: “It’s different, unique, and embodies a great spirit. It’s a never-give-up attitude, and that’s what we stand for. We play and live like the city we represent.”