Kennedy Burke embracing Sun leadership role with emotional Barclays Center return on tap
UNCASVILLE, Conn.— Jonquel Jones wrapped her arms around Kennedy Burke on Sunday afternoon and pulled her in tightly.
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It’s a drastic shift from the hustle and bustle of New York.But Burke, a self-described “easy person,” is enjoying the transition.After spending the past two seasons in New York, Burke signed a one-year, $1 million deal with the Sun.She joins Brittney Griner as a veteran leader for a young, rebuilding team in its final season in Connecticut before the franchise moves to Houston.The chance of playing with Griner, whom Burke is a “huge fan” of, was enticing for the 29-year-old guard-forward.
But Sun coach Rachid Meziane also played a part in recruiting Burke to Connecticut.Burke played for Meziane for two seasons in France.He sold her on the team’s vision.“They have players that want to compete, who want to have fun, [are] young, spirited,” Burke told The Post.Burke was a reliable role player for the Liberty and is coming off a career-best season, during which she averaged 8.1 points while shooting 46.8 percent from the field and 41.4 percent from deep.She’s slated to assume a much larger role with the Sun, who have eight players under the age of 26.“I’m excited about that,” Burke said.
“Knowing that I have to step up my vocal leading skills, but I think what helps is being around another vet, like BG, who does it consistently on a daily basis, when we have pract...