Mayor Adams awards Key to NYC to WNBA champs New York Liberty

Mayor Eric Adams has awarded the prestigious Key to the City of New York to the newly crowned 2024 Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA) champions, the New York Liberty. Following a spirited ticker-tape parade through the iconic Canyon of Heroes, the team was celebrated at a City Hall ceremony, marking a significant milestone for both the Liberty and the city.

“Keys to the City are reserved for those who know how to bring home the trophy,

true champions, like the New York Liberty,” declared Mayor Adams. “Every step of the way, the New York Liberty made our city proud, from making franchise history to securing the best record in the league, to inspiring all New Yorkers that our city is full of champions. I am proud to deliver the highest honor I can offer, a Key to the City to each member of the New York Liberty, who have created a lasting legacy for our city.”

The Liberty’s historic win marks their first WNBA championship since the team’s founding in 1997, one of the eight original franchises in the league. Led by Head Coach Sandy Brondello, the Liberty clinched the title with a decisive victory over the Minnesota Lynx in Game 5 of the finals, capping off an extraordinary season with the league’s best record of 32-8.

The honor was accepted on behalf of the team by CEO Keia Clarke, who reflected on the team’s journey: “The Liberty are proud to bring the WNBA championship to New York, and we are honored to accept this Key to the City. We have been chasing this dream since 1997 and would not be here without this incredible team who showed grit and determination all season long, Joe Tsai and Clara Wu Tsai, and each and every Liberty legend who paved the way. We take great pride in what the Liberty built during this historic season, and to all the Liberty fans celebrating across the city and around the world, we thank you. This championship is for you.”

Each of the Liberty’s 12 players, including stars like Sabrina Ionescu and Breanna Stewart, as well as the coaching staff and Board of Governors Joe and Clara Wu Tsai, received a Key to the City. This ceremonial honor, dating back to 1702, symbolizes the city’s appreciation and admiration for those who have shown exceptional dedication to their craft and their community.

As night falls, city landmarks — including Brooklyn Borough Hall and the David N. Dinkins Manhattan Municipal Building — will glow in seafoam green, celebrating the Liberty’s remarkable achievement and lighting up the city in solidarity with fans across New York.