New York, still seeking the franchise's first title, played in four WNBA Finals in the league's first six years but hasn't been back to the championship round since losing to Los Angeles in 2002.

WSJ: Ford eyeing title in return to WNBA with Liberty

Laimbeer's hiring has energized the fan base of a franchise that reached the WNBA Finals four times in the league's first six years, but has not been back since losing to Los Angeles in its last appearance in 2002.

WSJ: Laimbeer: Liberty will be fun to watch in 2013

During the WNBA Finals press conference, President Laurel Richie commented that the league intends to form strategic alliances with organizations that share their values, fan base, or potential fan base with the goal of building strong and sustainable attendance.

FORBES: WNBA: Basketball Courts Full Of Women

Laimbeer's hiring in New York last October has energized a franchise that reached the WNBA Finals four times in the league's first six years, but has not been back to the championship round since losing to Los Angeles in its last appearance in 2002.

WSJ: With Laimbeer as coach, retooled Liberty excited

Sarah Spain and additional contributors will provide espnW's take on The Finals, including an informative glossary of basketball terms. espnW will also feature predictions and perspective from WNBA players.

ENGADGET: ESPN 3D preps for NBA Finals, adds new Friday Night Fights to the schedule