After guiding the New York Liberty to a 2024 WNBA Championship, General Manager Jonathan Kolb is already focused on the next challenge: securing another title. Kolb’s dedication to building a competitive, title-worthy team paid off last season, and as the Liberty gear up for their 2025 campaign, he reflects on the lessons learned and the work still to be done.

“Winning at the highest level is no easy task,” Kolb shared in an interview with Sports Illustrated. “You need top-tier talent, depth, and, of course, health. Those are the key ingredients. But you also need everything to align perfectly, and that’s something I’ve learned the most about as a basketball decision-maker.”

While Kolb credits the hard work and skill of his team, he also found valuable lessons in the emotional aspects of winning. Reflecting on the Liberty’s victory over the Minnesota Lynx in the 2024 WNBA Finals, he emphasized the importance of patience.

“You don’t win a title in game one or game 30. It’s about creating the right habits and building momentum,” Kolb said. “The process is slow at first, but then it starts to snowball, building faster and faster toward the end. The key is to do it the right way, every step of the journey.”

As the Liberty enter the 2025 season, the team will open their campaign on May 17 at Barclays Center against the Las Vegas Aces. It will be a special night, as the Liberty celebrate their championship with title rings and a banner ceremony to honor their 2024 victory.

Kolb, who has served as the Liberty’s GM since 2019, is determined to keep the team on track for further success. With an eye on another WNBA Finals appearance, he remains committed to ensuring the Liberty remain a powerhouse in the league.