The New York Liberty have made significant moves to maintain their championship status in the WNBA by adding former Finals MVP Emma Meesseman and forward Stephanie Talbot to their roster. This development comes as the team prepares for the upcoming 2025 WNBA playoffs and aims to bolster their already formidable lineup, which includes the talented Jonquel Jones, who is expected to return soon from an ankle injury.
Meesseman, a prominent player who has not played in the WNBA since 2022, previously achieved success with the Washington Mystics where she won a championship. During her last season in the league, she averaged 12.4 points and contributed to the Chicago Sky’s semifinal run. Known for her impressive performance with the Belgian national team, she averaged 19.2 points and 9.2 rebounds at EuroBasket, leading her team to victory. After a stint with Turkey’s Fenerbahçe S.K., her return to the WNBA is highly anticipated, especially with the Liberty.
The Liberty’s roster is already stacked with talent, featuring stars like guard Sabrina Ionescu and forward Breanna Stewart, as well as guard Natasha Cloud, who has positively integrated into the team after an offseason trade. The addition of Meesseman and Talbot only enhances an already deep squad, creating a daunting challenge for rivals such as the Minnesota Lynx and the Phoenix Mercury.
Interestingly, Meesseman had considered both the Lynx and the Mercury before ultimately choosing the Liberty, signaling her belief in New York’s championship potential. This choice indicates that the rest of the league recognizes New York as a significant contender moving forward.
Overall, the addition of these players showcases New York’s commitment to excellence and their drive to keep the WNBA title in the Big Apple. With such strategic moves, the team is poised for a strong run in the upcoming season.