Brondello’s New Opportunity in WNBA
Less than a year after losing her job, Sandy Brondello has been given a fresh chance in the WNBA. Jonathan Kolb, the Liberty’s general manager, indicated that Brondello’s departure wasn’t solely tied to the team’s underwhelming first-round playoff performance.
“This isn’t a performance-driven organization,” Kolb remarked to reporters in a recent press conference. “It’s not just about wins or losses. We’re focused on how to strategically position ourselves to be a leading team in a sustainable manner as the league progresses.”
In a positive turn for Brondello, she has been appointed as the head coach of the Toronto Tempo, one of the new franchises in the WNBA, as reported by IX Basketball’s Howard Megdal.
Sandy Brondello Brings Extensive WNBA Experience to League’s Newest Franchise
Brondello brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having clinched two WNBA championships. Previously, she coached the Phoenix Mercury and the Liberty, boasting an impressive 107-53 record during her tenure with the Liberty, the most victories by a coach in the franchise’s history.
Before stepping into coaching, she had a successful playing career, spanning five seasons in the WNBA and earning an All-Star title in 1999. Additionally, she coached the Australian Women’s National Basketball Team, leading them to a bronze medal at the 2024 Paris Olympics.
While the Tempo has yet to officially announce her hiring, multiple sources, including ESPN, have confirmed it. The team is directed by general manager Monica Wright-Rogers, who is considering Brondello for the head coach position.
Now they have locked in one of the league’s most seasoned coaches.
The Tempo is the second team to finalize its head coaching choice this offseason. Recently, Portland Fire confirmed the hiring of Alex Salama, an assistant coach from the Cleveland Cavaliers, as their inaugural head coach.
However, two coaching positions still remain vacant: the Dallas Wings and the Seattle Storm, both of which have recently let go of their coaches. The future decisions for these teams seem uncertain, as they weigh options between established WNBA veterans and new coaches from the NBA.
What’s clear is that Sandy Brondello, one of the most sought-after coaching candidates, is no longer available. Toronto is now set to begin a new chapter with one of the most experienced coaches at the helm.
