When fans attend a New York Liberty basketball game at Barclays Center, they can expect a good time.
But when Liberty mascot Ellie the Elephant is around, the game environment turns into a party.
Maddie the Mascot served as the Liberty’s mascot prior to Ellie’s arrival. In 2021, the 25th anniversary of the WNBA, the Liberty introduced Ellie the Elephant as the team’s new mascot with a tie to New York’s history.
In 1883, the Brooklyn Bridge officially opened, with questions about the bridge’s structural strength looming. Showman P.T. Barnum walked 21 elephants across the bridge to display its strength. Ellie’s name originated as a tribute to Ellis Island, with the crown on her head serving as a representation of the Statue of Liberty.
According to a news release, Ellie the Elephant serves as an “authentic connection” between Brooklyn, Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty.
Ellie’s dance moves, halftime performances with recording artists and lifestyle separate her from the (relative) normalcy of other mascots.
“The way Ellie be moving, only a soul sista can do that,” Liberty forward Kayla Thornton said.
Here are some of Ellie the Elephant’s best moments.
Lil’ Ellie Kim
Ellie the Elephant’s halftime performances are mostly…
