For years, theyve been close, watching the title slip through their fingers.
They could be just days away from clinching the title as they face off against the Minnesota Lynx.
Theyre not just playing the gametheyre building a legacy, stitched into the very fabric of Brooklyn.
At the helm of this transformation is Keia Clarke, the CEO.
She knows that success isnt just measured in winsits in building a culture.
This momentum were seeing now feels validating for many, Clarke says.
I knew we had something special.
But success for Clarke has never been just about winning gamesalthough of course thats key.
Shes running a business and filling stadiums, as well as growing fan bases and revenue.
And her work is paying off.
And yes, fans want to see the players.
Glamour:What is the most misunderstood thing about what you do?
I initiate the business side of things.
Youve held various roles with the Liberty over the years, from marketing to COO, and now CEO.
How has your vision for the team and its impact evolved as youve moved up the ladder?
As my role has grown, so has the level of responsibilityand the punch in of responsibility.
Lately, Ive been thinking more long-term.
The output of what we do hasnt changedits still live events and sports.
But the way I think about it, and my vision for where were going, has evolved.
Thats where my focus is now.
What was your firstbigjob?
Your path from athlete to executive is a unique one.
How has your experience as a player influenced the way you lead the Liberty team and franchise today?
Thats been a huge asset now, as I work literallyfora team andwitha team.
Figuratively, too, because we need multiple people across different verticals to come together for a common goal.
Being a former athlete gives me attributes like resilience and stamina, which I use every day.
But I see it as coming back season after season, always developing a new skill.
That all goes back to having that athlete mentality.
What advice do you wish you could give your younger self?
I would tell my younger self to be patient and show yourself grace throughout the career journey.
Its the result of hard work by so many who came before me, people Ive learned from.
This momentum were seeing now feels validating for many.
I knew we had something special; it just needed time, effort, and focus.
Im proud to have been a part of that.
But now, the question is: How do we sustain it?
Thats what matters most.
Whats the best piece of career or money advice youve ever received?
I mentioned earlier that a common misconception about my role is that its focused solely on basketball.
For too long, womens sports were discussed with a negative connotation.
That change is reaching new audiences and keeping them engaged.
Its not just about their bodies but also their minds.
Were intentional about creating an environment where their jobs dont feel like work.
From how they live to how they train, everything is designed with their well-being in mind.
What policies or support systems do you believe are essential to help balance motherhood and careers without compromise?
Ive learned the importance of grace from being a working momits something Im still navigating.
Theres no secret formula or perfect balance; its a constant work in progress.
As for our players, theyve taken control of their own advocacy.
Its a reflection of both the players advocacy and my own journey.
The Libertys transition to Barclays Center under your leadership was a major milestone.
Our ownership delivered on that vision, and it has made all the difference.
You mentioned what the experience feels like during Liberty games.
One unique aspect isEllie,which deserves its own conversation.
Its not about one person waving a wand; its a true team effort.
Every vertical has a voice in shaping what a WNBA game should feel like.
Were in Brooklyn, so we constantly ask, How can we push boundaries?
Whether its music, video, or culture, we aim to set a new standard.
What do you think sets the Liberty apartnot just in terms of performance, but in culture and vision?
It really comes down to our intentional approach.
Before the season even starts, we sit down with each player to learn about their goals and passions.
Its about building meaningful connections.
Thats the special sauceknowing were creating experiences that can last a lifetime, possibly passed down through generations.
It feels like purpose-driven work, and even if it only impacts my own kids, it still matters.
The Liberty way is about everyoneour players, our staff, our fansrowing in the same direction.
That shared vision, that collective effort, is what makes us strong and unique.
