What Liberty newcomers have to say about teammates, franchise resources

Liberty coach Sandy Brondello knew Isabelle Harrison was a special talent more than a decade ago.It’s why the Mercury drafted Harrison No.12 overall in the 2015 draft despite her being sidelined with an anterior cruciate ligament tear.A decade later, Brondello is still high on Harrison and says she could play an important role in helping the Liberty defend their 2024 title.“It’s great to have her back here,” Brondello said Monday.

“She can add another level to how we want to play.”Harrison is just as excited about her reunion with Brondello as she is to be with a WNBA team filled with stars.Over the past few days, Harrison couldn’t help but to feel inspired as she looked around the Liberty’s practice court at Barclays Center.She watches to see what Breanna Stewart is working on by herself and takes notes.She’s in awe of Sabrina Ionescu’s pursuit to elevate her game and Jonquel Jones’ desire to continue proving people wrong.“Being around players like Sab and Stewie, it just makes you rethink your game, truly, it pushes you to another level and you can never get comfortable,” Harrison said.

“Being around players like that, you just don’t ever get comfortable because they don’t do that.”What’s also helped Harrison with her transition to Brooklyn is how the Liberty have continued to deliver on everything they promised.Harrison has played for four other WNBA teams, but never has she experienced first-rate support like she has in her first few weeks with the Liberty.Some of the newcomers, including Natasha Cloud, have welcomed the Liberty’s organization and regimented schedules.Harrison, though, appreciates the individualized attention to each player and what their specific needs may be.She likes that there’s no shortage of time on the training tables, which wasn’t always the case at other teams.

When she walks off the court after workouts, she’s handed a protein smoothie made to her liking.“You’re just not spending your ...