The New York Liberty have captured the basketball world’s attention. After clinching their first-ever WNBA title in 2024, the NY Liberty approach the 2025 season with heightened expectations and a roster eager to defend their crown. Let’s explore how this dynamic team is set to shine, the players fueling their success, and what lies ahead on their path to greatness.

2024: A Historic Breakthrough

The prior season was nothing short of historic. The NY Liberty posted the league’s best regular season record at 32-8. In a dramatic playoff run, they knocked out the defending champs and then outlasted the Minnesota Lynx in a five-game thriller to secure their first WNBA championship. This victory marked the culmination of years of planning and talent development for the franchise.

As covered by Yahoo Sports, WNBA legend Sue Bird highlighted the Liberty as favorites for the 2025 championship. The main reason? Their steady core. The team brings back its biggest stars—Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones. This consistency provides not only chemistry but the experience needed for another title charge.

Leadership on and off the Court

Breanna Stewart’s arrival in New York shifted the league landscape. The franchise’s commitment under owner Clara Wu Tsai created the ideal environment for a superteam, anchored by Stewart, Ionescu, and Jones. The New York Post explores how Stewart leveraged her platform with the NY Liberty to further elevate the WNBA's popularity and visibility. Her decision to leave Seattle in 2023 is already paying off, with titles and a newfound New York fanbase.

A Crucial New Addition: Natasha Cloud

The championship off-season saw changes, including the departure of key veterans. But the NY Liberty stepped up by trading for Natasha Cloud—a defensive standout with playmaking abilities and championship pedigree.

According to NetsDaily, Cloud brings tenacious perimeter defense, the ability to set up teammates, and proven leadership. Her versatility on both ends gives head coach Sandy Brondello more options, especially as the team adapts to missing Betnijah Laney-Hamilton (injury) and Kayla Thornton (expansion draft).

Cloud’s arrival means Sabrina Ionescu can play off the ball more often, freeing her to find easy looks rather than shoulder the full playmaking load. Even at 33, Cloud is an impact defender and brings a winning mentality to a team hungry for more.

Sustained Success and Higher Expectations

Maintaining championship form is never easy. Every contender will be targeting the NY Liberty, but their roster depth and reinforced backcourt make them tough opponents. Stewart, Ionescu, and Jones headline the attack, while Cloud’s presence could be the difference-maker in close games.

Sue Bird remarked that “going back-to-back is really difficult,” but with the Liberty’s mix of returning stars and fresh talent, repeating as champions is a real possibility.

Looking Ahead: Can NY Liberty Repeat?

The buzz around the NY Liberty is more than justified. The blend of continuity, superstar power, and inspired acquisitions sets the stage for another deep postseason run. If the team stays healthy and adapts to its new pieces, New York could very well defend its title and cement itself as a long-term WNBA powerhouse.

As the new season tips off, all eyes are on the Liberty. For fans and followers alike, it’s a thrilling time to witness the rise of a new dynasty in women’s basketball.