New York Liberty Fires Sandy Brondello After 2024 Championship Amid Player Injuries

The New York Liberty made a surprising and controversial decision to part ways with head coach Sandy Brondello less than a year after she led the team to its first WNBA championship in 2024 and back-to-back Finals appearances in 2023 and 2024. Despite an injury-riddled 2025 season resulting in a first-round playoff exit, Brondello had amassed the best winning percentage in franchise history and was widely respected by players like Breanna Stewart and Sabrina Ionescu, who publicly supported her retention. The move shocked many in the WNBA community, including Becky Hammon, head coach of the Las Vegas Aces, who praised Brondello's coaching qualities and championship pedigree. Critics argue that the firing was an overreaction given Brondello's consistent success, including multiple deep playoff runs and her overall career record, and warn it could lead to instability for the Liberty. Meanwhile, Brondello is expected to remain a sought-after coaching candidate, with potential openings such as the Seattle Storm's head coach position. The Liberty's general manager Jonathan Kolb is now tasked with filling the significant void left by one of the franchise's most successful and respected coaches.