As the CEO of the New York Liberty, Keia Clarke’s days are long, and no two are ever the same. Yet, through the constant hustle and bustle, one thing remains consistent—her love for her community, a love that fuels her work every single day.
“I’ve been with the Liberty for 14 seasons now, and every day feels like a new adventure,” Clarke shared with WBLS. “From starting as the marketing manager to now being the CEO, I’ve seen the team grow, and with it, my connection to the community has only deepened. It’s rare for someone to stay with one organization for this long, but there’s something really special about live entertainment and the impact it has on people’s lives.”
Clarke’s Journey From Marketing Manager to CEO
Clarke’s journey with the Liberty began in 2010 when she took on the role of marketing manager. In those early days, her focus was on shaping the team’s brand and connecting with fans through social media and game day events. As the team moved from playing at Madison Square Garden to Westchester County, and finally to their current home at Barclays Center in Brooklyn, Clarke’s role expanded, eventually leading her to the top as the Chief Operating Officer and then CEO. Her growth within the organization mirrored the growth of the team itself—both evolving, both thriving.
“No day has been the same, and no season has ever looked like the one before,” Clarke reflects on her journey. “That’s been a driving force in my longevity with the franchise. The Liberty’s move to Barclays Center, in particular, felt like we were finally planting roots. It’s more than just a home for our fan base; it’s a home for our players and our entire staff. It’s a place where we can focus on excellence, growth, and creating unforgettable experiences for our fans.”
A Commitment to Community and Representation
Under Clarke’s leadership, the New York Liberty has become a beacon of pride not just for Brooklyn but for the entire WNBA community. Clarke’s passion for her role extends beyond the court and deep into the streets of New York City. During the 2021 Olympic break, while many teams might have taken a step back, Clarke led the Liberty in hosting 22 events in just 30 days.
“We made a concerted decision to be outside, to be present in our community,” Clarke explained. “Our finale event, the Brooklyn Dribble, saw over 2,000 families come together for a one-mile dribble parade and fan fest at Brooklyn Bridge Park. It wasn’t just about selling tickets; it was about showing love to the community that shows up for us.”
Clarke’s deep connection to the community is also evident in her commitment to representation within the organization. As the first Black woman to serve as CEO of the Liberty, Clarke is acutely aware of the significance of her role.
“I’ve intentionally and deliberately hired women of color to represent this diverse product that is on the court,” Clarke said. “When you talk about a league that’s over 80% Black women, it resonates deeply. We want to do something for the culture, to stand at the intersection of sports and culture, and to amplify voices that have been underrepresented for too long.”
The Future of the Liberty and the WNBA
The rapid growth of the WNBA in recent years has been nothing short of remarkable, and Clarke has had a front-row seat to this transformation. “It’s been a long time coming,” Clarke notes. “We’ve always hoped for a moment like this, where pop culture is talking about us, TV ratings are at an all-time high, and arenas are selling out across the country. As the CEO, it’s about legitimizing this as a business, and I could not be prouder of this moment in time. But we’re not done yet—it’s all gas, no brakes.”
As she looks to the future, Clarke’s vision for the Liberty and the WNBA is clear. “We’re going all the way,” she says with determination. “That includes winning a championship and achieving sustained business success. The health of this business is contingent on strong management and a team that believes in what we’re building. I’m excited to be at the helm as we navigate this journey.”
For Clarke, the most rewarding part of her role is the joy she sees in the fans who fill the Barclays Center, night after night.
“The joy that exudes from these fans, the way they’re showing up for this team, is paramount,” Clarke beams. “We’ve seen an 83% increase in attendance this season alone. When I see families with little kids dancing and cheering in the stands, participating in community events, that’s the greatest joy for me. It’s the community—always the community.”
As Clarke continues to lead the Liberty with a deep sense of purpose and an unshakable love for her community, she remains focused on one goal: ensuring that the New York Liberty isn’t just a basketball team but stays in the center of the Brooklyn community.