The New York Liberty made history by winning their first WNBA championship, and the city of New York came together to celebrate their victory with a ticker-tape parade in the iconic Canyon of Heroes in downtown Manhattan. The parade was a joyous occasion as fans, dignitaries, and teammates cheered on Jonquel Jones, Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and the rest of the Liberty squad.
The championship-clinching Game 5 against the Minnesota Lynx, which went into overtime, was a thrilling and unforgettable moment for the franchise. The victory marked a significant milestone for the Liberty, who have been a part of the WNBA since its inception.
The parade was attended by prominent figures such as New York Sen. Chuck Schumer, Gov. Kathy Hochul, and Mayor Eric Adams, who showed their support for the team and its historic achievement. The presence of former Liberty players, including Teresa Weatherspoon, Vickie Johnson, and Kym Hampton, added to the nostalgia and celebration of the team's journey to the championship.
Notably, the ticker-tape parade tradition in New York City has honored various champions and significant events over the years. The last women's sports team to receive this honor was the U.S. soccer team in 2019, following their World Cup victory. Additionally, essential workers and first responders were recognized with a parade in 2021 for their dedication during the pandemic.
While the Liberty basked in the glory of their championship, it's worth noting that not all New York sports champions have received ticker-tape parades. Teams like New York City FC and NY/NJ Gotham FC, despite their championship wins in Major League Soccer and the NWSL, respectively, were celebrated differently without a parade in the Canyon of Heroes.
The Liberty's triumph and the outpouring of support from the city underscore the significance of their achievement and the impact of women's sports on the community. The parade was a fitting tribute to the team's hard work, dedication, and resilience throughout the season, culminating in a historic championship win.
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