The New York Liberty’s 2024 WNBA championship was a statement. But as the 2025 season wears on. Their status as legitimate repeat contenders is small.
1. GM Skepticism
Despite retaining stars like Sabrina Ionescu, Breanna Stewart, and Jonquel Jones. Only 20% of WNBA general managers picked the Liberty to repeat. In contrast, 60% of them chose the Minnesota Lynx.
2. Rising Competition and Internal Instability
The Minnesota Lynx continues to look dominant. Their depth and execution have put them atop the WNBA standings. While other teams like the Aces and Dream keep the pressure on.
4. Inconsistency and Costly Losses to Minnesota
The New York Liberty lost three straight games to Minnesota. (July 30, August 10, and August 16). They finally scraped together a win on August 19. However, by then the message was sent and loud and clear. That the Lynxs want another WNBA Championship”.
5. Struggling Against the Sun
Another point is that The Liberty’s shaky play isn’t reserved just against elite teams. On August 25, 2025, they barely beat a struggling Connecticut Sun squad, 81–79. This is a Sun team sitting at the bottom of the WNBA standings(9-28). Breanna Stewart’s return to the lineup helped, but New York still struggled throughout the night. This is another bad sign that this team will not be repeating.
6. Still Potent—But Vulnerable
Yes, Brianna Stewart’s return is a boost. Yes, the Liberty still has enough firepower to beat anyone. However, the cracks are showing. The lack of consistent rebounding and shaky bench play will leave them vulnerable and ultimately hurt them.
Final Verdict:
Liberty fans had better keep the memories from last year close. Because when this team gets bounced out of the playoffs. Chances are, we may never see another WNBA Championship in New York.