In a surprising move, the New York Liberty have announced they will not retain head coach Sandy Brondello for the 2026 WNBA season, just one year after she guided the team to its first-ever WNBA championship.
Brondello’s Legacy with the Liberty
Sandy Brondello, 57, departs as the winningest coach in Liberty history, compiling a 107–53 record over four seasons. She led the team to back-to-back 32–8 campaigns in 2023 and 2024, reaching the finals both years and capturing the title in 2024—the first championship in franchise history.
Despite these achievements, the 2025 season proved challenging. After a strong start, the Liberty experienced a mid-season slump and were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs by the Phoenix Mercury. Injuries to key players, including Breanna Stewart and Jonquel Jones, compounded the team’s difficulties.
Player Support and Front Office Decisions
Brondello received strong backing from her players. Breanna Stewart publicly praised her coach’s leadership and resilience, highlighting her impact on team culture.
Nonetheless, the Liberty’s management opted for a new direction. General Manager Jonathan Kolb acknowledged Brondello’s contributions but emphasized the need for a fresh approach to keep the team competitive at the highest level.
The Search for a New Head Coach
With Brondello’s departure, the Liberty have opened a search for a new head coach. Potential candidates reportedly include Sonia Raman, Brian January, and Nikki Collen. Additionally, assistant coach Olaf Lange, who is also Brondello’s husband, is expected to leave, creating further changes in the coaching staff and player development structure.
Implications for the WNBA
The decision to part ways with a championship-winning coach underscores a trend of rapid coaching turnover in the WNBA, even following successful seasons. Teams are increasingly prioritizing short-term results, raising questions about long-term stability, diversity, and coaching development in the league.
