The basketball world eagerly anticipates the return of 2019 WNBA Finals MVP Emma Meesseman, who is poised to make her highly anticipated New York Liberty debut against the Connecticut Sun. This significant addition injects a new level of talent and experience into the Liberty’s quest for a championship, marking her first WNBA appearance since 2022.
Meesseman’s decision to re-enter the league after a two-year hiatus was carefully considered, with the esteemed WNBA free agency veteran ultimately choosing the New York Liberty as her preferred destination for the season’s final two months. Her comfort level with the franchise and its championship aspirations were key factors in securing this pivotal athlete debut.
Arriving in New York just days prior after completing her visa process, Meesseman quickly transitioned to join the team in Connecticut. She immediately engaged in a focused 30-minute post-shootaround workout with assistant coach Andrew Wade, a familiar face from her time in Washington, signaling her readiness to contribute, even if initially in an emergency role according to Coach Sandy Brondello.
From afar, Meesseman has keenly observed the league’s burgeoning popularity and evolution while dedicating her recent years to Belgium’s national team, participating in events like the FIBA World Cup and the Olympics. Her motivation stems from a genuine love for basketball and a desire to experience the league’s expanded fanbase and influx of young talent once more.
Her return to the WNBA was not impulsive but a long-contemplated move, prioritized after helping Belgium secure qualification for next year’s World Cup. Meesseman emphasized the importance of her national team commitments, which influenced the timing of her signing, alongside personal considerations regarding visas and her overall readiness for this significant WNBA return.
Meesseman’s arrival provides a crucial reinforcement for the Liberty, who are currently contending with notable athlete injuries, including Breanna Stewart’s knee issue and absences from Nyara Sabally and Kennedy Burke. Her versatile skill set offers much-needed depth and leadership during this challenging period.
Despite their current three-game losing streak, the Liberty (17-9) hold second place in the standings and face a demanding schedule with three games in five days, including two matchups in Connecticut before hosting Dallas. Meesseman’s presence, even if limited initially, is a morale and strategic boost for the team.
A two-time All-Star and key member of the 2019 Washington Mystics championship squad, Meesseman brings a winning pedigree. Her past collaboration with newly acquired Natasha Cloud in Washington further strengthens the Liberty’s on-court chemistry, re-establishing a potent connection from their championship-winning days.
Meesseman’s continued dominance in overseas play, evidenced by her multiple EuroBasket MVP awards and leading Belgium to the medal round at the Paris Olympics, underscores her elite talent. With Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, Cloud, and Leonie Fiebich already on the roster, Meesseman’s integration positions the New York Liberty as an even more formidable contender for the WNBA title.
