As the 2024 WNBA season dawns, the Liberty training camp roster is preparing with renewed optimism. The team is once again boasting the star-studded starting lineup that propelled them to their first WNBA Finals since 2002 last season. WNBA superstars, Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Courtney Vandersloot are poised to repeat their stellar performances as they are now well settled into their Liberty roles. Collectively, this trio holds the promise of a potential dream season.
Maintaining the Momentum
The Rome wasn’t built in a day – nor is a championship team. The continuity from last season’s excitement and success is a critical foundation for the squad’s chemistry. Aces’ superstars, A’ja Wilson, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young have showcased that a dedicated, steady core can achieve back-to-back titles in 2022 and 2023 seasons. “The only way you can build chemistry is time,” said Sandy Brondello, Liberty’s seasoned coach.
Jones’ Journey
Jonquel Jones endured a rocky start last season, transitioning to the Liberty after a trade from the Connecticut Sun. Injury and the navigation of a new system hampered her performance. However, after the All-Star break, Jones’ performance spiked and seemingly fell into a groove. Her confidence is only going to be a positive addition to the Liberty lineup in the forthcoming season.
The 2023 Experience
Breanna Stewart, the shining MVP of 2023, was no exception to the trials the team faced last season. After moving from Seattle to New York in free agency, Stewart spent last season adjusting to her new lifestyle and a foreign city. Despite the potential disruptions, she managed to excel, leading the team to the Finals. This year, with the lessons and experiences of last season under her belt, Stewart is poised for another great season with the liberty.
Vandersloot’s Vital Contribution
Courtney Vandersloot, a key guard for the Liberty, also saw her fair share of setbacks last season. A concussion resulted in her missing critical practice time before the 2023 season. This year, she is primed and ready to bolster the Liberty’s defense.
The Path Forward
Despite the setbacks, the Liberty managed to fight their way to the Finals last season. But the team, under the guidance of Coach Brondello, is not resting on its laurels. The three main contributors, Stewart, Jones, and Vandersloot, are now well-settled in New York and ready to hit the ground running.
Having a healthy, focused, and determined squad enhances the team’s chances ten-fold. The Liberty believes that success lies in consolidating the core lineup and gradually building strong team chemistry over time. Following this formula, the team hopes to replicate the success of the Las Vegas Aces.
Chasing the Coveted Trophy
The quest for the franchise’s first-ever WNBA title is still very much alive for the Liberty. If last season was any indication of what this team is capable of, then the 2024 season promises to be one to watch. With Stewart, Jones, and Vandersloot leading the charge and a healthy support cast behind them, the sky’s the limit for this team.