🔥 Rewritten Article: Betnijah Laney & Courtney Vandersloot Reflect on Liberty’s Historic Season
The New York Liberty may have fallen just short of a WNBA championship, but the fire they’ve ignited this season is far from extinguished. At their end-of-season press conference, stars Betnijah Laney and Courtney Vandersloot opened up about the highs, the heartbreak, and the lessons that will fuel the team next year.
“You know, every year that we’ve been in the playoffs and lost, it’s fueled us,” Laney admitted. “We were so close. It hurts, but it also proves we’re capable of winning it all. This is fuel. This is motivation for next season.” Vandersloot echoed her teammate, emphasizing that the experience of reaching the Finals as a unit—most of whom were doing so for the first time—was invaluable. “It hurts now, but next season we’ll be smarter, stronger, and more prepared. We’ll know exactly what it takes to win.”
Physically, both stars plan to rest during the offseason—a first for them after long careers juggling domestic and overseas play. Laney shared, “This will be my first full offseason in years. I need to recharge my body so I can be at my absolute best for the WNBA.” Vandersloot added that skipping overseas play this year will allow her to maintain her health and build momentum for next season.
Retention and team chemistry are top priorities for the Liberty moving forward. The team is working hard to retain superstar JJ while also exploring opportunities to bring in talent like former teammate Ali Figley. Vandersloot explained, “JJ’s drive, defensive tenacity, and offensive skill make her indispensable. We’re doing everything we can to keep her on the team and continue this journey.”
Leadership emerged in unexpected ways this season. Laney and Vandersloot both highlighted JJ as a quiet force who found her voice in crucial moments, helping the team navigate challenges and galvanize the locker room. “Her game speaks for itself,” Vandersloot noted. “But by stepping up, she gave us a new sound and fresh energy when we needed it most.”
Reflecting on the season’s joys, both players pointed to moments that transcended wins and losses. Victory in the Commissioner’s Cup provided a tangible benchmark for the team’s growth. Laney described it as a confirmation that “we’re on the right track,” while Vandersloot cited the collective rally to the Finals as a moment of pure joy.
Off the court, New York City has become home in every sense. From celebrating milestones together to embracing the vibrant energy of the fans, the players feel a deep connection to their city. “Seeing Barclays packed during the Finals—breaking records, supporting us—is electrifying,” Laney said. “It motivates us and gives us momentum. The goal isn’t just ours; it’s for everyone who’s supported us.”
This season, Laney and Vandersloot proved resilience isn’t just a word—it’s a mindset. Through injuries, setbacks, and high expectations, both players emerged stronger, hungrier, and more determined than ever. “Every challenge makes me stronger,” Laney said. “Next season, we’re coming back not just for ourselves, but for our teammates, our fans, and this city.”
The Liberty may not have hoisted the championship trophy, but they’ve built a foundation of leadership, chemistry, and unrelenting drive that promises their best seasons are still ahead. For New York fans, the message is clear: this team is only getting started.
Leave a Reply