In a dramatic turn of events for the New York Liberty, the franchise has decided to part ways with head coach Sandy Brondello just one year after she led the team to its first WNBA championship. General Manager Jonathan Kolb described the decision as “proactive,” aimed at injecting “freshness” and “energy” into a team that faced a disappointing first-round playoff exit this season.
Despite a stellar start to the 2025 campaign that saw the Liberty rattle off nine consecutive victories, injuries and inconsistent performances plagued the team as the season progressed. Star players like Jonquel Jones and Sabrina Ionescu struggled with health issues, leading to a lack of cohesion and ultimately a disappointing playoff showing against the Phoenix Mercury.
Kolb emphasized the need for change in the organization, highlighting that “standing still” was not an option. The decision to dismiss Brondello reflected both the results on the court and a vision for the future in a rapidly evolving WNBA landscape. The general manager acknowledged the importance of player feedback but made it clear that leadership would take charge in making difficult decisions.
As the Liberty now search for Brondello's replacement, several candidates have emerged, including those with experience in both the WNBA and NBA. The organization is keen to find someone who can not only connect with the players but also adapt to the changing dynamics of professional women's basketball.
With the Liberty’s recent struggles still fresh in their minds, the franchise is at a pivotal moment, poised to rebuild and strategize for a more successful 2026 season. As the team embarks on this new chapter, the pressure will be on to reclaim their status as championship contenders.