The New York Liberty unveiled an Xbox-inspired basketball court at Barclays Center on Tuesday, the first gaming-inspired hoops court in the WNBA. It is also the first secondary court design among current WNBA teams, according to Xbox's website.
The Liberty and Xbox collaborated on the new hardwood look that features green dots against a black backdrop in the paint which resembles the vents from the Xbox Series X, Microsoft's next-gen gaming console. The sidelines are in Xbox's green hue, while sonic waves are placed on opposite ends of the court.
New York will use the court design in back-to-back games against the Los Angeles Sparks on Tuesday and Wednesday. Fans also can take in the new court using the Infinite Canvas' Dunk Simulator experience in the global online gaming and social platform, Roblox. People can participate in several activities on the court within the game's multiverse, including dunking, fireworks, fan chants and more.
New York's first game on the fresh court ended in a 102-73 win against the Sparks. It was the Liberty's third straight win at home. Sabrina Ionescu led the way with 31 points, 6 rebounds, 4 assists and 4 steals on 68% shooting. Natasha Howard also had a big night for New York with 24 points and 11 rebounds on 90% shooting from the field.
NEW YORK - August 2nd, 2022 - The New York Liberty in collaboration with @Xbox has unveiled the @WNBA's first-ever gaming inspired basketball court for the team's August 2nd and August 3rd home games versus the Los Angeles Sparks at Barclays Center. 1/2 pic.twitter.com/VfAQDaFuyx
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 2, 2022
Liberty players received Xbox consoles ahead of Tuesday's game in team-themed boxes.
When @Xbox helps Power Her Dreams...and surprises our Liberty players with a sneak peak of the team's new court and exclusive Liberty-branded Xboxes! pic.twitter.com/ERI7HYfmbC
— New York Liberty (@nyliberty) August 2, 2022
New York has a 12-18 record on the season and is among six teams fighting for three remaining playoff spots.