As if this offseason did not already produce a shocker when the San Antonio Stars were sold from Spurs Sports & Entertainment to Las Vegas-based MGM Resorts.
The Madison Square Garden Company has announced its intent to sell the New York Liberty – one of the original WNBA franchises. MSG also owns the NBA’s Knicks and the NHL’s Rangers along with Madison Square Garden itself and MSG Networks which broadcasts Liberty games.
The Madison Square Garden Company Announces Intention to Sell New York Liberty
Full Release: https://t.co/nSP1Hz3m9x pic.twitter.com/gzAbdloOHo— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) November 14, 2017
The above statement claims MSG’s intent to soon find a purchaser of the franchise – as well as one that intends to continue its success.
We are confident that new ownership can build on the foundation we established over these last 21 years and steward this incredible franchise into an even more successful future.
–Jim Dolan
The above statement also indicates the intent to ensure the Liberty’s new owner keeps the franchise in New York.
One would think WNBA president Lisa Borders, along with NBA commissioner Adam Silver, would ensure the Liberty remain in New York, given the downgrade of a team’s value for leaving the nation’s top media market.
The Liberty now presents a tremendous opportunity for a new owner to bring new resources, creativity, and focus to ensure the team becomes an enduring success.
–Jim Dolan
Bill Laimbeer recently left the Liberty to become the head coach of Las Vegas’ team. Katie Smith has since been announced as the Liberty’s new head coach. Also, its now former CEO, David O’Connor, departed from MSG yesterday.
Here’s a statement from @WNBA President Lisa Borders on Madison Square Garden’s intention to sell the New York Liberty. #WNBA pic.twitter.com/XadXtNILG2
— Alana M. Glass (@IWant2BeAnOwner) November 14, 2017
By: Akiem Bailum (@AkiemBailum on Twitter, Instagram)
