Overview

• The team announced Tuesday that Brondello will not return, closing a four-year run that delivered New York’s first WNBA championship and a 107-53 record.
• New York started 9-0 before injuries to Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu and Jonquel Jones contributed to a No. 5 seed and a series loss to the Phoenix Mercury.
• Players, led by Stewart, voiced support for Brondello after the elimination, and the decision drew widespread criticism on social media and in opinion pieces.
• ESPN reporting says the Liberty will begin a coaching search immediately, with media speculation ranging from Teresa Weatherspoon to James Wade and other WNBA/NBA-adjacent candidates.
• Analysts project Brondello will be a top target elsewhere, with Seattle’s opening commonly mentioned as a potential landing spot.