In Super Squads, The Athletic follows the New York Liberty and Las Vegas Aces in their quests to win a WNBA championship. Our reporters will tell the stories of the players on two of the most star-studded teams in league history and examine how their paths shape the future of the WNBA.
NEW YORK — Moments before the New York Liberty’s home opener tipped off, Breanna Stewart took center court for the first time in front of her new fans. With a microphone in hand, the two-time WNBA champion welcomed them. “Hello, Brooklyn. It’s nice to be home,” Stewart said. “It’s nice for us to be home. I know we’re so excited to play in front of you guys.”
The announced 8,575 people at Barclays Center roared as Stewart preemptively thanked them for their support. Then the game began and Stewart showed why she is more than just a team spokesperson. She grabbed the first defensive rebound, pushed the ball up the floor in transition and found a fellow offseason acquisition by the Liberty for Jonquel Jones’ first home basket. On the next offensive possession, Stewart hit a 3-pointer on the right wing. She finished the first quarter with 19 points on 6 of 7 shooting for a 22-point Liberty lead. Throughout Sunday’s contest, they never trailed.
Stewart said she expected some love…
