New York entered the 2025 season as one of the favorites to win the title. Not only had they just won the title, but they also added Natasha Cloud to their championship core. Sabrina Ionescu, Natasha Cloud, Leonie Fiebich, Breanna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones form one of the most dangerous starting lineups in the WNBA. On top of that, the Liberty also have Kennedy Burke, Marine Johannes, and Nyara Sabally coming off the bench.
Even with Betnijah Laney-Hamilton sidelined due to a knee injury, the Liberty entered the new season with sky-high expectations. Anything other than a third consecutive finals appearance would have been somewhat disappointing.
The Liberty only further upped the pressure with their latest roster move. Alexa Philippou reported that Belgian superstar Emma Meesseman “has committed to joining the New York Liberty.” While it might be a week or two until Meesseman actually joins the team, her addition means that the only way the Liberty’s season will be viewed as a success is if they win another championship.
The Liberty land another big-time star
The Liberty’s roster already features two former MVPs—Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones—and Sabrina Ionescu, who is a multi-time All-Star and All-WNBA Second Team member. Pairing that star power with a great supporting cast makes New York one of the most stacked teams in the league.
Emma Meesseman signing with the Liberty only adds more star power to the mix. Meesseman may not have played in the WNBA since 2022, but she has already found a lot of success in the U.S. She is a two-time WNBA All-Star, a champion, and a Finals MVP.
Those accomplishments pale compared to her endeavours in Europe, though. Meesseman has been one of the best players in Europe for years, winning several league championships in Belgium, Turkey, and Russia, six EuroLeague championships, and three consecutive EuroLeague MVP awards. Meesseman has also impressed on the international stage. She just led the Belgian national team to a EuroBasket championship and won the tournament’s MVP award.
Adding Meesseman could be enough to set the Liberty apart from other contenders
Halfway through the season, it looks like three teams have a reasonable shot at the 2025 WNBA championship: Minnesota, New York, and Phoenix. All three teams feature some of the brightest stars in the league and deep supporting casts. Adding another star to an already impressive Liberty roster may be enough to set New York apart from the other contenders once Meesseman actually steps onto the court for her new team.
The Mercury recently added DeWanna Bonner, but have also been dealing with injuries to Kahleah Copper and Satou Sabally. Meanwhile, Minnesota has been quiet, not adding to its roster like the other contenders.