Dick Vitale, a close personal friend of New York Liberty Head Coach Richie Adubato and a WNBA supporter, dropped by Madison Square Garden for Game 2 to support his former assistant coach (Detroit Pistons).

Vitale gave the Liberty a pre-game speech in the locker room, and visited them postgame for some consoling and encouraging words as well. The PTPer (the signature Vitale "Prime Time Players/Performers") himself took a :20 timeout at the game to answer some questions for wnba.com ...

You're a basketball expert and a close friend of Coach Richie Adubato, what are your thoughts on the league?

Vitale: "I think the basketball in the WNBA is excellent. I did an event with John Wooden, the legendary basketball coach of UCLA, and he said that as far as execution is concerned and playing below the rim these athletes play better basketball than anyone. The fundamentals, the way they pass the ball, hit the threes and really the skill of these athletes is getting better and better and better."

What's your prediction for this exciting New York Liberty vs. Charlotte Sting series?

Vitale: "I love Charlotte's guards. When you look at Stinson and Staley, they can really shoot well and handle well. I also love the defensive tenacity of the Liberty and I think ultimately good defense will prevail. They have plenty of talent offensively. I love the way Robinson can shoot the ball, I think Phillips is outstanding, and Weatherspoon's a winner. I think New York wins the series."

What's your prediction for the Championships?

Vitale: "I'm a little biased because I grew up with Richie Adubato and he was my assistant coach in Detroit, so I'm hoping the third time the Liberty make it to the Finals that they get that little break and win it. But, the Sparks are going to be very tough to beat. If the Sparks close out the series against Sacramento, it's going to be hard for them to win out at the Staples Center with the home court advantage. I'm listening to my heart, though, and I'm going with the Liberty."

Who are your PTPers (the signature Vitale "Prime Time Players/Performers")?

Vitale: "Weatherspoon runs the offense well and is an extension of the coach on the floor. Stinson and Staley are certainly PTPers, no doubt about that. And Phillips and Robinson are great for the Liberty as well. So, those are my PTPers, baby!"