NY Liberty celebrated in ticker-tape parade

New York City hosted a historic ticker-tape parade to celebrate the NY Liberty's first WNBA championship in their 28-year history. The celebration followed their dramatic overtime victory against the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of the 2024 WNBA Finals, marking the first winner-takes-all overtime game in finals history.

The parade, which began at 10 a.m., proceeded through the Canyon of Heroes from Battery Park to City Hall, becoming only the third such celebration for a women's sports team in the city's history. Thousands of fans wearing Liberty green and navy lined Broadway through the Financial District to cheer on their champions.

Finals MVP Jonquel Jones led the celebrations, holding the championship trophy high as confetti rained down. Together with teammates Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, they were welcomed by enthusiastic crowds throughout the route.

At the City Hall ceremony, Mayor Eric Adams praised the team's embodiment of New York values - hard work, resilience, and determination. Coach Sandy Brondello expressed gratitude to the loyal fans who supported the team throughout their journey. Jones, who delivered a standout performance in the decisive game, shared an emotional message about chasing dreams and led the crowd in the team's signature chant: "We all we got! We all need it!"

The Bahamas-born Jones also acknowledged her pride in representing both New York and her home country, announcing plans for additional celebrations in the Bahamas. The festivities continued into the evening with a special event at Barclays Center in Brooklyn.

The Liberty's championship victory represents more than just a sports achievement; it stands as a milestone for women's sports and a unifying moment for New York City, demonstrating the power of perseverance and dedication in achieving historic breakthroughs.