After a monumental season, the New York Liberty are WNBA champions — the team’s first win in franchise history. But we can’t forget about the immense, unwavering support from the Liberty’s utterly irresistible mascot, Ellie the Elephant, a star in her own right. Throughout the season, Ellie was on hand to keep momentum up and cheer on the players to victory.
Who is Ellie the Elephant?
More than just a mascot, Ellie has transformed into a pivotal support system for the New York Liberty. She twerks to Beyoncé, Tyla, and Missy Elliot. She wears designer outfits. She rocks an awesome braid. She brings in the likes on Instagram and TikTok. Truth be told, Ellie is a sensation.
When the WNBA made a move over to its new home, Barclays Center in Brooklyn in 2021, Ellie took the mascot reigns from a golden retriever, Maddie. And there was a reason for the choice: elephant’s strength and knowledge and ties to the borough: When the Brooklyn Bridge was first constructed, showman P.T. Barnum ordered 21 elephants march across the structure to prove its strength and reliability — traits Ellie exhibits well.
“Ellie has transcended what it means to be a mascot and rather an extension of the team with her iconic dance moves, fan interactions, unmatched style and countless viral moments reverberating throughout pop culture,” the WNBA said.
It’s Ellie’s world — and city — and we’re just living in it, but there are certainly no complaints here!
If you still want to celebrate this historic win, you’re in luck. On Monday, October 21st, iconic NYC buildings will illuminate in sea foam blue in honor of this WNBA win, and a New York Liberty WNBA Championship Parade is on its way to the Canyon of Heroes. (More details to come.)