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The New York Liberty announced Thursday they’re planning a new dedicated practice facility in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, that’s slated to open in 2027.
“We are a player-first organization and investing in health and wellness has always been a priority for us,” team governor Clara Wu Tsai said. “The New York Liberty deserve a facility of their own: one that reflects their tremendous talent, work ethic, and ambition. This facility is a sign of our commitment to the team, to the city of New York, and to the advancement of women’s sports.”
The 75,000-square-foot facility will have two full practice courts indoors and another court outside. Among the other features are a two-story training room, two family lounges, and a studio where players can make appointment for their hair, nails or makeup.
“The Liberty made this facility a true player-led endeavor, incorporating our insights to help us be our best, while strengthening our bond as a team and with the New York community,” forward Breanna Stewart said. “As a mom, I’m especially grateful for the family rooms—it means everything to know my family is cared for while I stay locked in on my craft.”
The Liberty have come a long way from the days when they were temporarily stationed at Westchester County Center and languishing under the ownership of James Dolan.
Clara Wu and Joe Tsai purchased the team in January 2019 and wasted little time in trying to turn it into a first-class organization that would attract star players. In April 2020, the Tsais unveiled a rebrand and signaled their intention to move the Liberty into Barclays Center on a full-time basis.
The hard work paid off when New York landed a pair of former MVPs, Stewart and Jonquel Jones, during the 2023 offseason. The franchise’s first title arrived last year as the Liberty bested the Minnesota Lynx in the WNBA Finals.
When it comes to practice facilities, the Seattle Storm started the trend with their Center for Basketball Performance, which opened last year. It was the first training venue purpose-built for a WNBA team.
The league has a hard salary cap, so it’s difficult for general managers outbid one another for the best free agents. Luxuries such as state-of-the-art practice facilities are one way for franchises to set themselves apart.
“There isn’t an owner in this league that doesn’t think that they will need a dedicated practice facility within the next two to three years to have a W team,” Connecticut Sun president Jennifer Rizzotti said to Sportico’s Eric Jackson. “… Whether they’ve announced it publicly or not, every owner knows that’s a reality they’re facing.”
The Liberty just raised the bar.
