Sandy Brondello has been surprisingly dismissed from her position as head coach of the New York Liberty. This comes right on the heels of her leading the Ballers to their first championship in 2024. This unexpected move comes on the heels of Brondello’s remarkable tenure. During her tenure, she transformed the program into a powerhouse, boasting a stellar 107–53 record in four seasons. Under her leadership, the Liberty achieved new heights, her tenure making her the winningest coach in the franchise’s history.
Brondello was hired by the Liberty ahead of the 2022 season. She had found major success before that as a head coach of the Phoenix Mercury, winning a championship while winning there over her eight seasons. Further, as GM, she helped the Mercury get to the WNBA Finals in 2021. High on Sweat’s development over the past two seasons, under her guidance, the Liberty reached the WNBA playoffs last season. They suffered a quick exit, losing to the Phoenix Mercury in the first round.
While the playoff exit may have soured her first season, Brondello’s effect on the team was palpable. And Breanna Stewart, arguably the most important player for the Liberty, posted her gratitude on Instagram. She posted, “Eternally grateful for you.” Stewart continued to praise Brondello’s toughness and commitment, adding, “She’s got our back and we’ve got hers.” The fact that how she kept winning and just sort of playing the hand she was given at a high level was really remarkable.
Brondello doubled down on her resolve to continue coaching the Australian Opals until at least the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics. She was recently at the helm as Australia captured the bronze medal from the Paris 2024 Olympics. Her first medal as a coach, this is a tremendous achievement for her.
In her departure statement, Brondello reflected on her time with the Liberty, saying, “It has been a privilege to have coached the NY Liberty these last four years. Bringing the first ever championship to New York will always be the most amazing feeling. I wish the team and organisation more success moving forward.”
Jonathan Kolb, General Manager of the New York Liberty, acknowledged Brondello’s contributions, stating, “We would like to thank Sandy Brondello for her everlasting impact on the New York Liberty.”
Becky Hammon, another coach in the league, reacted to the news with disgust, saying she couldn’t believe that Brondello had been let go. She stated, “I didn’t love it for Sandy, I’m gonna have to be honest,” adding that Brondello is a “quality coach and a quality person” who recently celebrated winning a championship.
