In a major move shaping the WNBA's coaching landscape, the reigning champion New York Liberty have appointed longtime Golden State Warriors assistant Chris DeMarco as their new head coach. This decision ushers in a fresh chapter for the franchise as it looks to solidify its dominance following the 2024 title win.
Sealing the Deal: A New Leader for the Champions
The Liberty management finalized the agreement to bring Chris DeMarco on board this Friday. The team officials worked closely with DeMarco's agent, Brian Elfus, to settle the terms of the contract. This hiring is part of an active offseason that has seen a total of five WNBA teams secure new head coaches.
The search for a new leader was comprehensive. The Liberty front office evaluated several strong contenders for the role. The shortlist included former Brooklyn Nets assistant Will Weaver, Phoenix Mercury associate head coach and former WNBA champion Kristi Toliver, and Toronto Raptors assistant Jama Mahlalela. Ultimately, it was Chris DeMarco's extensive and proven experience that secured him the top job.
The DeMarco Dossier: A Pedigree of Success
Chris DeMarco arrives in Brooklyn with an impressive resume built at one of the NBA's most successful organizations. His association with the Golden State Warriors began in 2012 during the Mark Jackson era. Over more than a decade, he climbed the ranks, serving in crucial roles such as assistant coach and player development coach, and was an integral part of the staff that secured four NBA championships.
DeMarco is renowned for his strategic acumen, having managed the Warriors' defensive schemes. He also played a pivotal role in honing the talents of stars like Klay Thompson and Jordan Poole. Adding a global dimension to his profile, DeMarco has been at the helm of the Bahamian senior men's national team as head coach since 2019, giving him valuable international experience.
Navigating Change and Looking to the Future
The decision to hire DeMarco comes after the Liberty parted ways with former coach Sandy Brondello. Despite a spectacular 9-0 start to the 2025 season, the team's campaign was derailed by injuries to key players Jonquel Jones and Breanna Stewart, leading to an unexpected first-round playoff exit. Brondello's contract expired in September, and she subsequently joined the expansion team, Toronto Tempo.
This appointment aligns with a growing trend in the WNBA, where teams are increasingly looking to the NBA for coaching talent to gain a fresh perspective. The Portland Fire, by hiring Alex Sarama, and the Seattle Storm, by bringing on Sonia Raman, have made similar moves this offseason.
Looking ahead to the 2026 season, the Liberty face significant roster decisions. With the collective bargaining agreement under discussion, most of the team's players are entering free agency. Currently, only Leonie Fiebich and Nyara Sabally are under contract. However, there is strong confidence within the organization that core stars like Breanna Stewart, Jonquel Jones, and Sabrina Ionescu will return to Brooklyn.
DeMarco's hiring signals the Liberty's unwavering commitment to sustained excellence. His defensive mindset and proven player development skills are seen as key assets to help the team navigate challenges like injuries and build a more resilient squad. The arrival of an NBA veteran like DeMarco also underscores the WNBA's rising stature and the increasing flow of cross-league talent. As the 2026 season approaches, the basketball world will be watching closely to see how DeMarco's Warriors-inspired philosophy translates to the WNBA hardwood.
