Former Liberty Coach Sandy Brondello Cites “Lack of Alignment” in Public Comments on Firing

Former New York Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello publicly addressed her September dismissal today, attributing the decision to a misalignment with the team’s front office.

Brondello, who led the Liberty to their first WNBA championship in 2024, was terminated following the team’s first-round playoff exit. Speaking on Sue Bird’s “Bird’s Eye View” podcast, Brondello stated, “I just felt that it probably wasn’t the right fit anymore, to be quite honest…I work best when I’m in a partnership.” She recently accepted the head coaching position for the expansion Toronto Tempo, a role she indicated she likely wouldn’t have taken had circumstances been different. The Liberty are currently the only WNBA team without a head coach as they continue their search.

Brondello also pointed to disagreements regarding the team’s offensive strategy, saying, “There probably was not alignment on what that looks like and how we could get better.” She acknowledged that the Liberty’s offense “slipped” during the 2024 Finals. General Manager Jonathan Kolb previously stated the firing was a decision to pursue “evolution and innovation,” and had even contemplated a coaching change during the championship season. The Liberty’s championship win marked a significant turning point for the franchise and the league, drawing increased national attention to women’s basketball.

Brondello, the Liberty’s all-time winningest coach, expressed a sense of acceptance regarding the outcome. “Players need a new voice, and I need new challenges,” she said. “If the alignment gets a little bit off, you know, astray, it’s time to move.” Kolb has not yet commented on Brondello’s recent statements, but the team continues to evaluate candidates including Kristi Toliver, Will Weaver, and Joseph Blair for the vacant head coaching position.