Liberty honors whitney with elephant ellie’s dazzling half-time tribute
The New York Liberty are celebrating their 30th anniversary with a performance that’s anything but ordinary – a reverent ode to the late Whitney Houston, delivered by their beloved mascot, Ellie the Elephant.
A diva’s legacy takes center stage
Forget the usual half-time show fanfare. This year, the Liberty are pulling out all the stops, anchoring Ellie’s performance in a nod to the team’s roots and Houston’s indelible connection to the franchise. It’s a bold move, a strategic blend of nostalgia and New York swagger, and one that’s guaranteed to electrify the crowd.
‘We wanted to anchor Ellie’s first half-time performance of the season in something that felt both nostalgic and distinctly New York,’ explained Criscia Long, senior director of entertainment at Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment. ‘That 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.’
Ellie’s intensive training: a mammoth effort
But crafting this tribute wasn’t a simple task. Ellie has been undergoing a rigorous training regimen for months, including daily miles – soundtracked by a carefully curated Whitney playlist – to build her stamina. The team, alongside Ellie, has been immersed in Houston’s discography, dissecting her vocals, movements, and undeniable stage presence. ‘I’ve studied everything: [Whitney’s] vocals, her movement, her energy, her presence,’ Ellie revealed. ‘I spent hours immersed in her performances and interviews, making sure every detail feels authentic.’
A carefully curated setlist: hits that still pack a punch
The team, in collaboration with DJ Jay Jung, whittled down a massive catalog to six unforgettable hits: “The Star-Spangled Banner,” “How Will I Know,” “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay,” “I’m Every Woman,” “I Will Always Love You,” and “I Wanna Dance With Somebody.” The pacing was meticulously considered, balancing vocal power with explosive energy to maintain a consistently dynamic show.
A visual spectacle: transforming ellie into a pop icon
The visual presentation is equally impressive. The styling team has reimagined four distinct looks inspired by iconic Whitney moments – from the scarlet tracksuit worn at the 1999 All-Star Game to a sleek black leather corset and a shimmering silver gown. Ellie’s wardrobe is complete with a fresh Essie manicure (a vibrant Mint Candy Apple) and a striking new wig, dubbed the ‘Whitney Bob,’ a dramatic statement piece. Adding to the spectacle, two new sponsors – Tabby Coach bags and Sunglass Hut shades – complete Ellie’s diva transformation.
More than just a performance: a celebration of influence
For Ellie, the performance represents a ‘true diva moment,’ a chance to honor a legend and ‘leave it all out on the stage.’ ‘Just as she always did,’ she added. The Liberty aren't just honoring Whitney; they're embracing her legacy and projecting it forward, ensuring this 30th-season celebration will be remembered as a landmark event.