Liberty dives deep: ellie the elephant delivers a whitney houston tribute that’s pure nyc glamour
The New York Liberty are turning 30, and they’re pulling out all the stops – including a half-time show performance that pays homage to a true New York icon: Whitney Houston. Forget predictable routines; this year, Ellie the Elephant is channeling the diva herself, delivering a spectacle that’s a reverent nod to Houston’s legendary status and the team’s own rich history.
A decade of dreams, dressed in diva style
The show, months in the making, isn’t just a tribute; it’s a meticulously crafted experience. Ellie, the team’s beloved mascot, has been undergoing intense training – think miles of sprints, a carefully curated Spotify playlist (led by Houston, naturally), and hours spent studying every nuance of Houston’s vocals, movement, and stage presence. “I’ve studied everything,” Ellie shared, “from her vocals to her movement, her energy, her presence. I spent hours immersed in her performances and interviews, making sure every detail feels authentic.”
Criscia Long, senior director of entertainment at Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment, explained the strategic brilliance behind the choice: “We wanted to anchor Ellie’s first half-time performance of the season in something that felt both nostalgic and distinctly New York. It led us back to the very first WNBA All-Star Game [in 1999], hosted by the Liberty, where Whitney Houston delivered an iconic National Anthem performance.” The goal? To ignite a spark of nostalgia and establish a powerful connection to the team’s roots.
Beyond the music: a visual spectacle
But it’s not just about the Music; it's about the visual impact. The styling team, working with four key Whitney Houston moments as a reference point – including that unforgettable 1998 Brit Awards look – reimagined four stunning new costumes for Ellie. A sleek black leather gown, a bold new wig dubbed “The Whitney Bob,” and even a fresh set of Essie nail art, perfectly complementing the Liberty’s Court Origins jersey. “I do a lot of talking with my hands,” Ellie quipped, “so I know that your manicure speaks before you even say a word. Whether it’s subtle or statement-making, make [your nails] you. And most importantly, keep them fresh. A clean, intentional manicure will Ellie-vate any look!” (A descriptor Ellie and the team use a lot – and one that certainly applies here).
The setlist itself is a carefully curated journey through Houston’s greatest hits – “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “How Will I Know,” “I’m Every Woman,” “I Will Always Love You,” “I Wanna Dance With Somebody,” and “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay.” Long and her team strategically paced the performance, balancing powerful vocal moments with high-energy sections to maintain maximum impact. “We had to be intentional about pacing,” Long explained, “balancing big vocal moments with high-energy sections to keep the performance dynamic from start to finish.”
Ultimately, this isn’t just a half-time show; it's a declaration. A bold, dazzling statement that the New York Liberty are not just celebrating 30 years – they’re honoring a legacy and stepping into their own, one perfectly executed diva moment at a time. Ellie, with her confidence and originality, is ready to leave a lasting impression.