After coming to the New York Liberty in a draft night trade, New Jersey native Jocelyn Willoughby was looking forward to playing her rookie season close to home. That will not be as the 2020 WNBA season will take place at IMG Academy in Bradenton, Florida, but Willoughby’s enthusiasm is not dimmed.
Since draft night, Willoughby, a guard/forward who attended the University of Virginia, has been working out at home. She admitted it hasn’t been typical preparation due to COVID-19, but she’s been maintaining her cardiovascular fitness, doing strength conditioning and studying video. This past week, she’s been able to work out with the Liberty coaching staff and meet some of her teammates before they head to Florida.
“Starting to gear up now,” said Willoughby. “We’ve been doing individual workouts. That’s been a good start in getting ready to go into the bubble and have training camp and get ready for games…Playing for a local team is an exciting opportunity.”
The Liberty provided Willoughby her first exposure to WNBA basketball. During the team’s three seasons at the Prudential Center in Newark (2011-13), she was able to attend quite a number of games. Her junior and senior years at Virginia, she played under WNBA legend Tina Thompson, winner of four WNBA titles with the Houston Comets.
“In terms of advice that she’s given me as I prepare for this next stage, it’s really just to be myself,” said Willoughby. “Knowing that I’m a hard worker that will definitely help me. Continue to stand in my body of work and continue to put in the extra work, which has gotten me this far.
“Whenever you’re transitioning, there are some nerves and excitement,” she added. “She’s told me, ‘You’re fine. You’re ready for this. Step into the opportunity and embrace it.’”
In an effort to keep everyone as safe as possible during the season, rookie players are not able to bring a plus one with them to Florida. Willoughby is fine with that and will keep in touch with her family and friends on the phone and online. She is looking forward to getting to know her teammates and most importantly getting back on the court and playing team basketball. “There’s something special in the works,” she said.
From watching videos, Willoughby has learned various aspects of the pro game, such as setting screens. “Becoming a little bit smarter in that sense to try and narrow the learning curve once I actually get on the court,” she said. “Being a student of the game.”