The Liberty faced a setback on Sunday as Kennedy Burke and Isabel Harrison left New York.
Burke has signed a one-year deal with the Connecticut Sun, as announced by the team. On another front, Harrison will be joining Sandy Brondello and Nyara Sabally in Toronto, Tempo confirmed.
Harrison’s contract with Toronto totals $400,000, according to reports. It’s likely that the Liberty couldn’t match that figure, particularly since they are grappling with a salary cap issue after bringing in Sato Sabally.
In light of these departures, the Liberty quickly signed Australian forward Anneli Meiley to a training camp deal. Meiley, who played alongside Sabally and Sabrina Ionescu at Oregon State during the 2017-18 season, recently scored an impressive 65 points against NBL1’s Perth Redbacks.
Additionally, New York signed Spanish forward/center Raquel Carrera for training camp, and they plan to re-sign guard Marin Johannes. They have also extended a reserve qualifying offer to Rebecca Gardner and retained exclusive negotiating rights for Betnijah Rainey Hamilton, Marine Forthru, and Han Shu.
Burke spent the previous two seasons with the Liberty, clinching a championship in 2024. She had what many would consider the best season of her career, averaging 8.1 points per game, with shooting percentages of 46.8 from the field and 41.4 from three-point range.
Recently, Burke was named EuroCup Final MVP after contributing significantly to CISMA CBK Mersin’s victory. Throughout the tournament, she averaged 21 points, eight rebounds, and one steal per game.
The Sun’s general manager, Morgan Tuck, praised Burke as a “proven contender” who brings versatility and experience to the team, which, he feels, will be a great asset for Connecticut.
“Her success in both the league and overseas showcases her impact on both ends,” Tuck added. “We’re thrilled about the depth and toughness she adds to our roster and look forward to seeing her in a Sun uniform.”
On the other hand, Harrison enters her ninth WNBA season after being drafted 12th overall by former Mercury head coach Brondello back in 2015. However, she has missed three seasons due to injuries and illnesses.
During her career, Harrison has averaged 7.7 points, 4.4 rebounds, and 1.0 assists, with an overall shooting percentage of 47.5.
In a statement, Harrison expressed excitement about this new chapter: “I’m happy to be a part of something new. I’m ready to start the season.”
Tempo’s general manager, Monica Wright Rogers, echoed that sentiment, noting Harrison’s toughness, experience, and versatility as key factors for their frontcourt. According to Rogers, Harrison is a seasoned professional who brings crucial depth and leadership to their growing roster.
Burke will kick off her season with the Sun on May 8th at Barclays Center. Meanwhile, the Liberty is slated for a preseason match in Connecticut on May 3rd. Harrison, along with Brondello and Sabally, isn’t expected to return to Brooklyn until June 3rd.
