WNBA Champion Coach Sandy Brondello Names A’ja Wilson and Caitlin Clark as Toughest Opponents

Newly appointed Toronto Tempo head coach Sandy Brondello identified Las Vegas Aces star A’ja Wilson and Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark as the most challenging players she faced during her successful tenure with the New York Liberty and Phoenix Mercury, a revelation that comes as she prepares to build a competitive roster in Toronto.

Brondello, who led the Liberty to a WNBA championship yesterday, explained the difficulties in defending Wilson, the four-time MVP. “A’ja, I think A’ja is really hard to defend. She needs a crowd around her. We were just lucky that they had some non-shooters around it. Hopefully, they’re having a bad night. She was just hard,” Brondello said on ‘Bird’s Eye View’ With Sue Bird. The Liberty managed to limit the Aces’ perimeter shooting in key games during their 2024 championship run, a strategy Brondello highlighted as crucial.

Turning to the rising star, Clark, Brondello acknowledged the young phenom’s multifaceted skillset. “I think Caitlin Clark is really hard to guard when she’s healthy, just her ability. She gave us a lot of handful this year, and she can shoot it from way out, but she can pass it. And I think she’s been a tough one,” Brondello stated. Clark’s impressive performance against the Liberty earlier this season, totaling 32 points, nine assists, and eight rebounds in her return from a quad injury, underscored her impact on the league. You can find more information about the WNBA at the official WNBA website.

Despite Clark’s talent, injuries limited her to 13 games in 2025, impacting her shooting percentages and overall performance. Coaches and medical staff are now focused on a comprehensive recovery plan to ensure she returns to full strength for the 2026 season, potentially becoming even more difficult to defend. Brondello is expected to begin assembling her coaching staff and evaluating potential players for the Tempo in the coming weeks.