New York Liberty Valuation Hits Record $450 Million After Investor Share Sale

NEW YORK, New York — The New York Liberty have achieved a record valuation of $450 million following the sale of shares to investors, according to reports on May 22, 2025. This valuation marks a milestone in women’s professional sports, greatly surpassing previous assessments of similar franchises.

Sources indicate that the sold shares represent a percentage in the mid-teens of the team, although specific details about the number of investors involved have not been disclosed. The transaction awaits approval from the WNBA, as the league continues to see rising valuations for its teams.

The Liberty’s new valuation is more than double the last known amount for a WNBA franchise. The Dallas Wings, for instance, sold a portion of their stake at a $208 million valuation last summer. Recent trends in women’s sports show a growing interest from investors, highlighted by Alexis Ohanian‘s recent acquisition of an $26.5 million stake in Chelsea Women of the Women’s Super League.

Funding from this freshly raised capital is expected to go towards building a state-of-the-art practice facility in Brooklyn. Announced in March, the 75,000-square-foot center will include amenities like two full practice courts, a recovery suite, and even a hair and makeup studio, designed specifically with players’ needs in mind. The facility, projected to open in 2027, is expected to cost around $80 million.

The Liberty’s current owners, Clara Wu Tsai and her husband Joe Tsai, purchased the team in January 2019 for approximately $10 to $14 million, significantly lower than its market value today. Since then, the franchise has thrived, attracting star players and enhancing its roster.

The Liberty won their first WNBA championship in October, contributing to their rise in popularity and attendance. Wu Tsai expressed ambition for the Liberty to become the first billion-dollar women’s sports franchise by the mid-2030s.

The Liberty now host their games at the Barclays Center and have shifted training facilities in response to their growth. They look forward to a competitive 2025 season after winning their opening game against the Las Vegas Aces.