WNBA Coaching Changes: A Look at Possible Candidates
Coaching in the WNBA can be quite challenging.
Noel Quinn has been let go from her position as head coach of the Seattle Storm, and Sandy Brondello is no longer with the New York Liberty. Consequently, both teams are now among four in the league seeking new leadership for the upcoming season, including the two expansion teams: Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo.
With a wide range of candidates including assistant coaches, former players, and previous head coaches, there is a considerable pool from which to draw. Here’s a quick overview of a few potential replacements for Quinn and Brondello:
Brian January – Indiana Fever Assistant Coach
Brian January spent 14 years playing in the WNBA, wrapping up her career with the Seattle Storm. In the last three seasons, she has been serving as an assistant coach, first with the Connecticut Sun and currently with the Indiana Fever. Many see her as a strong candidate for a head coaching role in the near future.
Tanisha Wright – Chicago Sky Assistant Coach
Tanisha Wright, another seasoned player with a 14-year WNBA career, was recently an assistant coach of the Las Vegas Aces and had three seasons as the head coach of the Atlanta Dream. This year, she joined the Chicago Sky’s coaching staff. Given her past experience and familiarity with the league, she might be a compelling choice for a head coaching position.
Teresa Weatherspoon – Former Chicago Sky Head Coach
Weatherspoon is a WNBA standout, known for her impressive eight-year playing career and five All-Star appearances. She has prior coaching experience with Louisiana Tech, as well as a stint as an assistant coach for the New Orleans Pelicans. After one season as head coach of the Chicago Sky, she went on to coach at Unralifed’s Vinyl Club. Notably, her reputation in player development might make her a valuable asset if she pursues a return to head coaching.
Rebekkah Brunson – Minnesota Lynx Assistant Coach
Brunson, who has an outstanding record as a player with five WNBA championships since 2020, has transitioned into coaching and currently serves as an assistant for the Lynx. Her experience in developing young talent could be especially advantageous for teams looking for fresh leadership.
Latricia Tramel – Los Angeles Sparks Assistant Coach
With ample coaching experience, Tramel has been part of the Sparks for several seasons and served as head coach for the Dallas Wings, albeit for a couple of seasons before being released. She’s well-regarded for her defensive strategies, making her a potential fit for a head coaching role with a team that needs a boost in that area.
Nora Henry – Dallas Wings Assistant Coach
Though not as seasoned as some other candidates, Henry is emerging as a promising young coach. She has worked with the Los Angeles Sparks in various capacities and showed her capability in player development. Last year, she was particularly active as an assistant coach for the Dallas Wings.
Christie Toliver – Phoenix Mercury Assistant Coach
Toliver, currently with the Phoenix Mercury, has past experience as an assistant with both the Washington Wizards and the Dallas Mavericks. As a noted WNBA player herself, with accolades including three All-Star selections and two championship titles, she has the potential to step into a head coaching role despite not having done so yet.
