Liberty: Sandy Brondello leaves the bench after WNBA playoffs failure

New York Liberty Decides Not to Renew Coach Sandy Brondello’s Contract

The New York Liberty announced the decision not to renew coach Sandy Brondello’s contract on Tuesday, just four days after being eliminated in the first round of the playoffs.

“It has been a privilege to coach the NY Liberty these past four years,” Brondello said in a text message. “Bringing the first championship to New York will always be the most incredible feeling. I wish the team and the organization more success in the future.”

Sandy Brondello

The Liberty’s management considered that only a championship would be a success this season, and the team chose not to exercise the option to renew Brondello.

“We would like to thank Sandy Brondello for her lasting impact,” said General Manager Jonathan Kolb. “Sandy ends her time in New York as the coach with the most wins in franchise history, and she led us to heights never before seen as the first head coach to take the Liberty to a championship. We wish Sandy all the best in her next chapter.”

Jonathan Kolb

After leading the Liberty to their first WNBA championship last year, the team faced difficulties due to injuries to Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu. New York earned the number 5 seed in the playoffs, but lost their first-round series against the Phoenix Mercury in three games. Brondello was hired to coach the Liberty in December 2021 and had a 107-53 record in four seasons. Brondello is expected to be considered for other head coaching vacancies in the league.