Rebecca Allen’s Unique Free Agency Experience

This free agency period has been quite distinct for Rebecca Allen.

It’s not just that it was shorter than usual; she also had a clear idea of what she wanted. “I was very clear,” Allen reflected on Tuesday. “I had a narrow-minded mindset like, ‘Hey, this is what I want. If I don’t get it, I’ll figure it out.’ But when things work out, it’s so great.”

Allen’s main goal? To immerse herself in a winning environment. She aspired to return to New York, a place that holds significant meaning for her and where she began her WNBA journey over a decade ago.

After playing for three different teams over the past three years, Allen’s wish came true with a one-year, $350,000 contract with the Liberty.

Having spent the first seven years of her career with the Liberty, Allen remarked, “Even if you’re the opponent, when you come in, it’s pretty daunting to play here as the visiting team. So I’m really happy to be back in this direction now.”

As part of a revamped bench, which was among the top three units last season but has seen changes during free agency, Allen joins a different roster. Nyara Sabally, Kennedy Burke, and Isabelle Harrison have left.

Now, alongside the likes of 6-foot-11 Chinese center Han Shu and Spanish forward/center Raquel Carrera, Allen also brings her experience back to the mix.

With Rebecca Gardner and Marin Johannes returning, and Betoniya Rainey-Hamilton cleared to play, there’s a sense of fresh energy. Leoni Fievich could also enter the reserve pool this season.

All seven players contribute variety to the lineup, enhancing scoring, defense, and flexibility as needed.

“One of the things we talked about early on was that he was going to be a star in his role,” said Gardner. “So it’s not just the starters paying attention, but us off the bench as well. It’s less about who’s No. 1 or No. 2, and I think that puts you ahead.”

Allen is optimistic about fitting into the Liberty’s new offensive approach and defensive strategy focused on spacing and ball movement. “I would also say I’m a selfless player,” she shared. “There are moments where you have to recognize, ‘Hey, this isn’t about me.’ You need the right people on the court at the right time. Sometimes that’s me, and sometimes it isn’t. Honestly, I feel like I’m a strong fit on both ends, especially defensively, and I’m already building confidence.”

A conversation with new coach Chris DeMarco left a mark on her. She appreciated that they not only talked about game plans but also shared personal interests, exchanging restaurant recommendations.

“His approach is different, and that’s what I like about it. He’s clear about his expectations, yet the delivery is unlike anything I’ve experienced. He makes everyone feel seen,” she noted.

Though training camp is still in the early days, Liberty is currently missing five players due to overseas commitments.

There’s a lot of work to be done, but there’s a sense of contentment among the players about the groundwork being laid in those initial practices.

“Given how our training camp is progressing, I don’t know if anyone is as dedicated as we are,” Gardner expressed. “It’s not something we’re focused on; it’s just going to come.”