HOT SHOTS

The Liberty were all optimism and excitement during their first training camp under new coach Bill Laimbeer, who led Detroit to three league championships from 2002 to 2009. “Bill is a perfect fit for New York,” says guard Cappie Pondexter. “He’s got that New York swagger, that New York attitude . . . we’re going to have a great year.” The Liberty have been to the WNBA playoffs in 10 of their 14 years, including last season, but a championship still eludes them. You can count on Pondexter along with their longest-tenured player, forward Essence Carson, to lead the charge again. And this is a bargain for top-notch round ball. Tickets start at $6 (lower baseline) with good seats (lower center) around $30. As renovations to the Garden are completed, this is the team’s last season at the Prudential Center, which is easily accessible via New Jersey Transit and PATH.

Fri., May 31, 7:30 p.m., 2013