The WNBA began in June 1997. We began going to the Liberty games in 1999, the year we moved back to NYC from the burbs. There were not that many fans then, but that has changed. What also changed is the game. The players’ physical prowess is on a whole other level than it was in 1999. It is so fun to watch.
We went to a Liberty game the other night. The fans are tried and true. They all know the cadence of the game; they all twirl the white flags over their heads, and the noise is deafening. It’s so good.
There are so many highlights, but I will name a few. The food is much better than the Garden. Security is a breeze in comparison, too. It is a very seamless experience although the history of the Garden is deep, the experience at the Barclays center might be better.
One highlight is halftime, as it should be. Instead of watching a curated dance from a group of female dancers wearing nothing more than bathing suits, I give serious applause to the Timeless Torches, alongside Ellie the Elephant. The Timeless Torches are a group of dancers aged 40 to 89; their jerseys show their age. They wear Timeless Torches oversized jerseys with matching sweatpants. It is a great look, and watching them is inspiring. They can dance, and they are so happy.
I also had a NY moment. I sat next to a woman who played at Northeastern, one of the first recipients of Title IX, and got a full ride while playing ball. She has attended every Liberty game for 29 years and has worked with some of the women’s coaches on the side over the years. She just retired from Cantor Fitzgerald and was fired the day before 9/11. That was a lot to take as a young person. She was quite amazing.
Looking forward to more Liberty games in our future.
