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The triumphant New York Liberty marked a historic milestone by celebrating their inaugural WNBA Championship in a spectacular fashion, with a dazzling ticker tape parade that flowed down the iconic Canyon of Heroes in Lower Manhattan on Thursday morning.
The jubilant festivities kicked off at approximately 10 a.m., featuring Liberty team members alongside energetic marching bands and esteemed dignitaries parading north along Broadway from Battery Park to the historic City Hall. Tens of thousands of enthusiastic New Yorkers lined the streets, offering cheers and excitement as confetti and colorful ribbons rained down from nearby high-rises, creating a vibrant spectacle.
Players were proudly displayed on various floats, each equipped with its own confetti cannon. Among them, Jonquel Jones, the celebrated WNBA Finals MVP, rode a float embracing her family while skillfully holding aloft the championship trophy. Meanwhile, Breanna Stewart showcased her “Stew York City” slogan aboard a Puma-themed truck, flanked by loved ones.
“No matter who scored or who shined, we just wanted to get the win,” emphasized Stewart, reflecting the team’s unity and determination.
The parade also honored former Liberty players, including Teresa Witherspoon, a key figure from the Liberty’s inaugural team back in 1997. “It’s just a level of pride, you know, we’re just super proud of what our people have done, our young ladies have done,” Witherspoon expressed. “We’re just super excited for what they’ve done. It’s been great. It’s been just amazing.”
City Hall celebration
Upon reaching its culmination, the parade transitioned into a heartfelt celebration at City Hall, where fans, city officials, and lawmakers gathered in excitement to commemorate these local heroines.
“I remember just being so excited the first time I saw Teresa Weatherspoon and Rebecca Lobo out on the court. I had my mom take me to an open practice back in 1998,” City Council Member Tiffany Cabán recalled, teeming with nostalgia. “So this is a very, very cool moment, not just for my child self, but to see the way that women’s sports and women athletes have transcended the sport, they’re showing leadership. It’s a very, very cool moment.”
“It’s very exciting for me. I have to say I was also involved in getting Mayor de Blasio to support the Women’s Soccer. I believe this might be the second women [championship win] and from that perspective, it’s really exciting,” remarked Manhattan City Council Member Gale Brewer, showcasing her enthusiasm for women’s sports.
The Liberty not only clinched their first-ever WNBA crown in an impressive 28-year journey but also secured New York’s first professional basketball championship since the 1973 Knicks achieved glory 51 years earlier.
“It was phenomenal, fabulous. The best game. It was the best final series ever,” shared Debra Clay, a passionate Liberty supporter and five-year season ticket holder who witnessed the championship game. “You know, when you fight hard and you work hard and you have the right character, then you deserve to win, and we deserve to win. So I’m very happy that we won.”
“When they won the championship, I heard flares and bells and bones and bumps all over New York, because that’s what it was all about,” remarked Renee Banks, a devoted Bronx resident. “I’m happy to see them get that championship; it’s wonderful, and all the fans and members are here, happy to see them, so it’s just great.”
Outside of City Hall, Governor Kathy Hochul extolled the Liberty’s season as “a magical ride,” praising their achievements. Mayor Eric Adams applauded the team for their hard work, showcasing their victory as a shining example of the spirit of New York City.
“There are only two types of Americans: those who live in New York and those who wish they could,” Adams declared to the enthusiastic crowd. “This team is amazing because they fought hard. Congratulations Liberty. Let’s win it again next year.”
Despite receiving mixed reactions from the crowd due to his recent federal corruption charges, the mayor presented each Liberty member with a ceremonial key to the city, recognizing their championship accomplishment. Ellie the Elephant, the beloved team mascot, lightened the atmosphere with a lively dance on the City Hall podium, delighting fans young and old alike.
Team owner Clara Wu Tsai expressed her overwhelming pride, commending the franchise’s commitment to uplifting and empowering players since their return to Brooklyn. “The original vision was to invest in these players and create an environment for them to excel,” she noted.
“We’re not done yet,” Liberty CEO Keia Clarke interjected confidently, emphasizing their aspirations for the future. “We’re just getting started.”
As she concluded the ceremony, Jones reflected on the journey that led to their victory, indicating that success is built step by step. “We have something that can never be taken away from us,” she declared, before leading the crowd in her signature chant, “We all we got, we all we need.”
The celebratory spirit continued, as the Liberty planned to cross the bridge back to Brooklyn later Thursday evening for a festive gathering at their home court, Barclays Center, ensuring the festivities extended far beyond the parade.
Interview with Jonquel Jones: Celebrating the New York Liberty’s Historic WNBA Championship
Editor: Jonquel, thank you for joining us today! Congratulations on the Liberty’s first WNBA Championship! Can you share what it felt like to ride down the Canyon of Heroes during the ticker tape parade?
Jonquel Jones: Thank you! It was truly surreal. As I rode down Broadway, seeing all the fans cheering and the confetti falling from the buildings, I felt an overwhelming sense of joy and pride. It wasn’t just about me; it was about our entire team, our city, and all the fans who supported us throughout this journey.
Editor: You were named the WNBA Finals MVP! What does this recognition mean to you personally, and how do you feel it reflects the team’s efforts?
Jonquel Jones: Winning MVP is an incredible honor, but the real victory is the championship and what it represents. This win reflects our team’s hard work and unity. We always focused on collective goals rather than individual achievements. It’s our combined efforts that got us here.
Editor: Breanna Stewart mentioned that “no matter who scored or shined, we just wanted to get the win.” How crucial was team chemistry in achieving this championship?
Jonquel Jones: Team chemistry was everything for us. We had each other’s backs on and off the court, which made a world of difference. Everyone contributed in their own way, and our unity allowed us to overcome challenges, stay resilient, and ultimately, lift that trophy.
Editor: The parade also honored former Liberty players like Teresa Witherspoon, who had a significant impact on the franchise’s history. What’s it like to connect with the legacy of those who came before you?
Jonquel Jones: It’s truly inspiring. People like Teresa have laid the foundation for us, paving the way for women’s basketball. To honor them during our parade was meaningful, reminding us that we’re part of a larger story in the sport and that we’re carrying that legacy forward.
Editor: with Mayor Hochul and City Council members celebrating your win, how does it feel to be part of this historic moment for New York sports?
Jonquel Jones: It feels incredible! We’ve been waiting for this moment for a long time. To not only bring a championship to New York but to elevate women’s sports is something I’m extremely proud of. We hope this victory inspires young girls and women to pursue their dreams, on and off the court.
Editor: Thank you, Jonquel, for sharing your thoughts with us today. We look forward to seeing the Liberty continue to shine!
Jonquel Jones: Thank you for having me! Go Liberty!
That team unity in achieving this championship?
Jonquel Jones: Team unity was absolutely essential. From day one, we established a culture of selflessness and support. Everyone knew their role and was willing to do whatever it took for the team to succeed. That mindset carried us through tough games and helped us maintain focus on our ultimate goal—bringing the championship to New York.
Editor: The parade also honored former players like Teresa Witherspoon, who helped pave the way for the franchise. What does it mean to you to be part of a legacy that includes such trailblazers?
Jonquel Jones: It’s an incredible honor. We stand on the shoulders of giants like Teresa and Rebecca Lobo. Their contributions laid the groundwork for our success today. It’s important for us to honor that legacy and continue to inspire future generations of female athletes. Knowing that we are part of this historic journey brings me so much pride.
Editor: Following the parade, there was a celebratory event at City Hall. What did it feel like to be recognized by city officials and local leaders in such a significant way?
Jonquel Jones: Being celebrated by our city was immensely touching. We felt the love and support from our community, and it reinforced the importance of what we’ve accomplished. It’s not just a win for us; it’s a win for every young girl who dreams of playing professional sports. We hope to inspire them and show them that anything is possible.
Editor: Looking ahead, what are your hopes for the Liberty in the upcoming seasons?
Jonquel Jones: My hope is that this is just the beginning. We’ve tasted success, and now we want to build a dynasty. Our team has the talent and work ethic to keep competing at the highest level. We’re excited to continue growing, both in our game and in our impact on the community. We have a lot more to achieve together!
Editor: Thank you, Jonquel! Your passion and dedication are inspiring, and we look forward to seeing what the future holds for you and the Liberty!
Jonquel Jones: Thank you for having me! Let’s keep this celebration going!
