When it comes to celebrating milestones, the New York Liberty knows how to make a statement. And what better way to mark their 30th season in the WNBA than by transforming their beloved mascot, Ellie the Elephant, into a true diva?
A Tribute to Whitney Houston
The idea was simple yet powerful: pay homage to the late Whitney Houston, a legendary artist with deep ties to the Liberty and the WNBA. As Criscia Long, senior director of entertainment at Brooklyn Sports & Entertainment, explains, "We wanted to create something nostalgic and distinctly New York."
And so, Ellie became Whitney for a night, embodying the confidence, originality, and inspiration that Houston is known for.
Training and Transformation
This transformation was not just a matter of donning a costume. Ellie underwent months of rehearsals and training, running miles daily to build stamina while listening to a Whitney Houston playlist. The mental preparation was just as intense, with Ellie immersing herself in Houston's performances and interviews to capture every detail.
The set list was carefully curated, featuring some of Houston's most iconic hits. From "The Star-Spangled Banner" to "I Wanna Dance With Somebody," the performance aimed to balance vocal prowess with high-energy moments.
The Visual Spectacle
Ellie's transformation extended beyond vocals and movement. The styling team created four dazzling costumes, each inspired by iconic Whitney Houston moments. From the sleek black leather gown and "Whitney Bob" wig to the scarlet red tracksuit and silver Grammy-inspired gown, every outfit was a statement.
A Diva Moment
The finale look, a silver mini-dress with arm bands, was the climax of the performance. It represented the joy and forward momentum of both Whitney's legacy and the Liberty's 30-year journey. As Ellie puts it, "It captures the essence of Whitney's confidence and the team's spirit."
Post-Game Reflection
For Ellie, the post-game ritual is all about recovery and reflection. After the high-energy performance, she indulges in some well-deserved self-care, stretching, and even an ice bath.
This transformative halftime show will undoubtedly go down in history. As Ellie says, "It's about honoring Whitney's legacy by leaving it all on the stage, just as she did."
A truly inspiring tribute, don't you think?
