Kennedy Burke Biography: New York Liberty Guard/Forward, Defensive Standout & Overseas MVP

Kennedy Burke is an American professional basketball player currently playing guard/forward for the New York Liberty in the WNBA. Known for her defensive versatility, athleticism, and leadership, Burke is a valuable contributor with a decorated college and international career.

Kennedy-Burke
Kennedy-Burke

Early Life and Background

  • Full Name: Kennedy Valentine Burke

  • Date of Birth: February 14, 1997

  • Hometown: Burbank, California (raised in Northridge, Los Angeles)

  • Height: 6’1″ (1.85 m)

  • Weight: 182 lbs (83 kg)

  • Position: Guard/Forward

  • High School: Sierra Canyon School (Chatsworth, California)

    • Comes from a basketball family; father played professionally in Mexico and for the Panamanian national team

    • Older sister, Kody Burke, played college basketball at NC State

College Career: UCLA (2015–2019)

  • Four-year standout for the UCLA Bruins

  • Career Stats:

    • 1,513 points (11.0 points per game)

    • Known for defensive skills and versatility

    • Helped lead UCLA to NCAA Tournament appearances

    • Developed a reputation for basketball IQ and playmaking

Professional Career

  • WNBA Draft: 2nd round, 22nd overall, 2019 WNBA Draft by Dallas Wings

  • Teams:

    • Indiana Fever (2019–2020)

    • Seattle Storm (2021)

    • Washington Mystics (2022)

    • New York Liberty (2024–present)

  • WNBA Stats:

    • Known for defensive versatility, athleticism, and ability to play multiple positions

    • Played a bench role for New York Liberty, making key contributions in limited minutes

    • Started in place of Breanna Stewart, notching 7 points, 3 rebounds, 2 assists, and 3 steals in a pivotal game

    • Valued for timely plays, leadership, and adaptability

  • International/Overseas:

    • Turkey (Bellona Kayseri Basketbol): 18 points, 8 rebounds per game

    • Italy (Dinamo Sassari)

    • Spain (Spar Girona): Competed in EuroLeague Women

    • France (Villeneuve-d’Ascq): Two-time French League MVP (2023, 2024)

      • EuroCup and EuroLeague Qualifying Round participant

      • Named All-EuroLeague Second Team and MVP of the Month (December)

      • Runner-up in EuroLeague (2023–24)

    • Turkey (OGM Ormanspor, 2024–2025)

Achievements & Honors

  • Two-time French League MVP (2023, 2024)

  • All-EuroLeague Second Team (2023–24)

  • EuroLeague MVP of the Month (December)

  • Runner-up, EuroLeague (2023–24)

  • Key contributor for New York Liberty’s championship aspirations

  • Defensive standout and versatile leader

Playing Profile

  • Strengths:

    • Elite defensive versatility and athleticism

    • High basketball IQ and playmaking

    • Reliable scorer and rebounder

    • Clutch performer in big games

  • Style:

    • Physical, skilled guard/forward who excels in transition and half-court defense

    • Brings toughness, championship experience, and a team-first mentality

FAQs About Kennedy Burke

What position does Kennedy Burke play?
Guard/Forward

Which team does she play for?
New York Liberty (WNBA)

How old is Kennedy Burke?
28 (born February 14, 1997)

What are her main achievements?
Two-time French League MVP, All-EuroLeague Second Team, EuroLeague MVP of the Month, runner-up in EuroLeague, key WNBA contributor

What is her playing style?
Versatile, defensive-minded guard/forward with strong leadership and playmaking

Conclusion

Kennedy Burke is a dynamic and accomplished guard/forward whose defensive prowess, athleticism, and leadership have made her a valuable asset for the New York Liberty and a respected figure in women’s basketball. Her success overseas and adaptability in the WNBA highlight her as a rising talent and a key contributor.
(Age, statistics, and honors are as of June 2025.)