The defending champion New York Liberty were handed a first-round exit from the WNBA playoffs after they lost their series against the Phoenix Mercury. However, what came as arguably a bigger surprise was the fact that the franchise responded by announcing that they will not be renewing head coach Sandy Brondello’s contract for the 2026 season .
While it may take fans some time, the front office seems intent on moving on as soon as possible. Multiple sources have told The Athletic that the Liberty are expected “to swing big.” The franchise has already narrowed down their search to six names across the NBA, WNBA and college basketball.
This list includes the likes of Will Weaver, Jenny Boucek, Kristi Toliver, Niele Ivey, Lindsey Harding and Sonia Raman. Raman, a current assistant co