Monday, August 3, 2015

Liberty 78, Storm 62: Ray Floriani's Photo Essay

NEW YORK CITY - In the professional ranks, there is no ‘senior day.’ A time to honor, with family and friends on hand, those who contributed and were so much a part of a given program. Baseball has its old timers’ day, which may be one event to compare to the celebration set aside on the college level.

The New York Liberty has their own ‘Ring of Honor, a time to remember, and as the name says, honor those who were such an integral part of the organization and its success. On Sunday, the latest ‘inductee’ into the Ring of Honor was Becky Hammon. She is known for recently breaking down the barriers, becoming the first female on an NBA coaching staff. This summer, she was the head coach of the San Antonio Spurs' Summer League team, capturing a championship.


Beyond the recent exploits on the sidelines, Hammon was an outstanding player during her WNBA career. Undrafted out of Colorado State, she made the Liberty and soon endeared herself to adoring fans with her hustling, enthusiastic style. That adoration was still evident on Sunday afternoon. 


Beside the Ring of Honor, there was a game to play. The Liberty increased their record to 13-6 with a 78-62 defeat of Seattle. Tina Charles once again led the way with a game-high 29 points and eight rebounds. Another repeat was in the offing, as the Liberty defense fueled the offense that broke open a game that New York led by one at the half. 

On a day fans remembered and honored the Liberty past, they exited Madison Square Garden feeling pretty good about this team’s present, and what is in store for the immediate future.



It is not Sunday in Manhattan without a Sabrett's hot dog cart nearby:
Liberty coach Bill Laimbeer chats with Doug Feinberg of the Associated Press pregame:
Becky Hammon entertains questions at her pregame press conference:
Seattle coach Jenny Boucek appears to be in a state of disbelief:
A local artist quickly composed a portrait of Becky Hammon during the Ring of Honor ceremony:
Past and present Ring of Honor inductees...from left to right, Kym Hampton, Teresa Weatherspoon, Becky Hammon, and Sue Wicks:
Bill Laimbeer reflects on another solid victory, capping off a special day:

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