Liberty honors whitney with stellar ellie performance – a 30th anniversary tribute
The New York Liberty delivered a show-stopping halftime performance, paying a reverent tribute to the late Whitney Houston as they celebrated their 30th season. Ellie the Elephant, the team’s beloved mascot, took center stage, embodying Houston’s iconic style and energy.
A decade-long dream takes flight
The concept began with a desire to anchor Ellie's first half-time show in something deeply connected to the Liberty’s history and the spirit of New York. Senior Director of Entertainment, Criscia Long, pointed back to the 1999 WNBA All-Star Game hosted by the Liberty, where Houston’s National Anthem performance remains a legendary moment. “We wanted to tap into that feeling – that nostalgia and distinctly New York vibe,” Long explained.
Ellie’s intensive training regimen
The performance was months in the making, a demanding undertaking for Ellie. She spent countless hours in rehearsals, incorporating a rigorous training schedule that included several miles of running daily – accompanied by a carefully curated Whitney Houston playlist on Spotify. “I’ve studied everything: her vocals, her movement, her energy, her presence,” Ellie shared with Vogue. “I immersed myself in her performances and interviews, ensuring every detail felt authentic.”
A six-song setlist – a diva’s legacy
The team, in collaboration with DJ Jay Jung, meticulously crafted a six-song setlist, drawing from Houston’s vast catalog. The final selection – “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” – was a strategic choice, designed to maximize energy and engagement. “We had to be intentional about pacing,” Long noted, “balancing big vocal moments with high-energy sections.”
A visual transformation: ellie goes diva
The visual presentation matched the musical tribute, with a dynamic, four-part costume evolution inspired by key moments in Houston’s career. The team recreated Houston’s iconic scarlet tracksuit from the 1999 All-Star Game, followed by a sleek black leather corset and wrap skirt—a nod to “It’s Not Right But It’s Okay.” The finale, a shimmering silver mini-dress, celebrated Houston’s six Grammy Awards and her electrifying stage presence. Ellie sported a fresh Essie manicure – “Mint Candy Apple” – perfectly complementing the team’s Court Origins jersey.
“It’s about honoring her legacy”
“When I think of Whitney, I think of legacy,” Ellie stated. “So many have been inspired by her presence and performance. She’s raised several generations of vocalists through her eternal art. I strive to have a legacy that exudes that level of confidence, originality, and inspiration.” The performance wasn’t just a celebration; it was a sincere homage to a true icon. With a final flourish and a memorable performance, the New York Liberty honored Whitney Houston and cemented their place in WNBA history.