The New York Liberty have made a strategic move by signing Kyra Lambert to a 7-day contract, adding depth and versatility to their backcourt. Lambert, a 5’9” guard out of Duke University, brings a combination of defensive tenacity, playmaking ability, and perimeter shooting that could provide a short-term boost for the team. This signing reflects the Liberty’s commitment to maintaining flexibility in their roster while addressing immediate needs as they push deeper into the WNBA season.
Kyra Lambert’s basketball journey has been one of resilience and determination. A former McDonald’s All-American in high school, she committed to Duke, where she showed promise as a two-way guard before injuries disrupted her collegiate career. After tearing her ACL in 2017, she missed the entire 2017-18 season but returned stronger, demonstrating leadership and defensive prowess.
Despite going undrafted in the 2021 WNBA Draft, Lambert earned a training camp spot with the Chicago Sky and later played overseas, honing her skills in Europe. Her professional experience, combined with her high basketball IQ, makes her a valuable short-term option for the Liberty.
New York’s backcourt has been solid this season, led by Sabrina Ionescu and Courtney Vandersloot. However, injuries and fatigue over a long season can take a toll, and having an extra ball-handler and defender provides insurance. Lambert’s strengths align well with the Liberty’s system:
1. **Defensive Versatility** – Lambert is known for her on-ball defense, capable of guarding multiple positions. In a league where perimeter scorers dominate, her ability to disrupt opposing guards could be useful in spot minutes.
2. **Playmaking & Composure** – While not a primary scorer, Lambert is a steady ball-handler who can facilitate and make smart decisions in limited minutes.
3. **Three-Point Shooting** – Though not elite, she has shown the ability to knock down open threes, which fits the Liberty’s floor-spacing approach.
A 7-day contract allows the Liberty to evaluate Lambert in practice and possibly game situations without long-term commitment. If she performs well, she could earn additional opportunities; if not, the team can move on seamlessly.
The WNBA’s roster rules allow for 7-day contracts, giving teams flexibility to address injuries or fatigue without overhauling their core. For players like Lambert, these deals are a chance to prove they belong in the league. Past examples include players who turned short-term opportunities into longer stays, such as Sydney Colson and Megan Gustafson.
For the Liberty, this move is low-risk, high-reward. They maintain roster flexibility while adding a player who could contribute in specific situations. If Lambert impresses, she could earn a full contract later in the season or with another team.
Lambert is unlikely to see major minutes immediately, but her presence adds depth. Head coach Sandy Brondello values defensive-minded guards, and Lambert’s energy could earn her spot minutes in blowouts or when foul trouble arises. Additionally, her signing allows the Liberty to rest key players like Vandersloot or Betnijah Laney-Hamilton in certain stretches.
### **Looking Ahead**
Lambert’s signing is a minor move in the grand scheme of the Liberty’s season, but it underscores the team’s proactive approach to roster management. As they chase a championship, every detail matters—even a 7-day contract could provide a hidden advantage.
For Kyra Lambert, this is another opportunity to prove she belongs in the WNBA. Whether this leads to a longer stay with New York or another team, her journey is a testament to perseverance in professional basketball.
