Story perspectives

Liberty Defeat Aces 87-76 After Legends’ Pep Talk

6/24/2026

Summary

Story summary

Former players Teresa Weatherspoon, Sue Wicks, Vickie Johnson and Kym Hampton delivered a pre-game pep talk stressing a never-give-up, blue-collar New York mindset.
The New York Liberty beat the Las Vegas Aces 87-76 at Michelob Ultra Arena on June 24, 2026.
Sabrina Ionescu said the legends’ talk helped the team value its history.
Breanna Stewart echoed Teresa Weatherspoon’s advice to “do things the New York way,” describing it as a never-give-up, blue-collar approach.

History

Historical Context

When the WNBA launched in 1997, the New York Liberty opened at Madison Square Garden, losing 59-57 to the Houston Comets before 13,000 fans; rookie guard Teresa Weatherspoon contributed 12 points, five assists and four steals. The gritty debut, part of the league’s first-eight-team era and the Comets’ early dynasty, forged a resilience that has helped the Liberty reach the playoffs in 19 of 28 seasons.

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Story summary

Former players Teresa Weatherspoon, Sue Wicks, Vickie Johnson and Kym Hampton delivered a pre-game pep talk stressing a never-give-up, blue-collar New York mindset.
The New York Liberty beat the Las Vegas Aces 87-76 at Michelob Ultra Arena on June 24, 2026.
Sabrina Ionescu said the legends’ talk helped the team value its history.
Breanna Stewart echoed Teresa Weatherspoon’s advice to “do things the New York way,” describing it as a never-give-up, blue-collar approach.

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