There’s a new icon in the WNBA. While she’s not on the roster, she does know how to work a runway and shut down a dance battle mid-court. Ellie the Elephant, the New York Liberty’s viral mascot, is redefining what it means to be that girl in the sports world. Ellie’s impact is very real, even if her true identity remains top secret.
With the 2025 WNBA season heating up, Ellie is stepping into the spotlight as more than just a team hype woman. She’s become a symbol of creativity, joy and unapologetic Black girl energy.
Who Is Ellie the Elephant?
No one knows who’s behind the mask and that’s by design. The woman bringing Ellie to life remains anonymous, preserving the mystery behind her larger-than-life persona. What there is to know, however, is that Ellie was the vision of a powerhouse trio of Black women execs who wanted to flip the script on what sports mascots could be.
Liberty CEO Keia Clarke, senior director of entertainment Criscia Long, and chief brand officer Shana Stephenson came together to bring Ellie into the world in 2023. She’s been booked, busy, and breaking the internet ever since.
Why an Elephant?
Elephants are wise, strong, and deeply communal, basically the perfect embodiment of what the Liberty stand for as a team and brand. The Liberty’s mission is rooted in excellence, empowerment, and evolution, and Ellie channels all that energy with every dramatic flip of her Liberty-green ears.
A Mascot, but Make It Fashion
Ellie isn’t just your average sports mascot. She’s part influencer, part performer, and full cultural moment. Whether she’s rocking a sparkly green bomber or popping up in Fenty gloss during a courtside campaign, Ellie knows how to stay on trend.
When the Liberty partnered with Rihanna’s Fenty Beauty last season, Ellie stole the show. She served looks, laughs, and lashes in a way only a true NYC queen could. She’s been spotted engaging with fans on TikTok, strutting down Barclays’ sidelines like it’s the MET Gala, and even being fan-casted in mock WNBA All-Star lineups.
A Win for Representation
Ellie is more than a moment. She’s a movement. Created by Black women, Ellie is a celebration of everything fans love to see in sports. She has authenticity, flair and a whole lot of heart. She’s showing that Black women aren’t just in the room, they’re running it. Behind the scenes, on the court, and now, under the mask.
While mascots have often felt outdated or disconnected, Ellie brings a refreshing and frankly overdue change. She’s the representation that hits different, especially for young Black girls in the stands.
What’s Next for Ellie?
As the Liberty gear up for what promises to be a great season, Ellie will be right there. She’ll be front and center, dancing, serving face, and showing the world that being a mascot doesn’t mean you can’t be the main character.