What's happened
The New York Liberty are set to appoint Chris DeMarco, a four-time NBA champion assistant with the Warriors, as their new head coach. DeMarco, 40, replaces Sandy Brondello and faces high expectations in his first WNBA coaching role. His NBA and international experience influenced the decision, announced after a series of finalist interviews.
What's behind the headline?
DeMarco's appointment signals a strategic shift for the Liberty, emphasizing defense and modern offensive systems. His NBA background, especially his defensive acumen, will likely influence the team's style and approach. His international coaching success adds a unique dimension, potentially benefiting players like Jonquel Jones and Sabrina Ionescu. The decision reflects a broader trend of NBA-influenced coaching in the WNBA, aiming for sustained success. The Liberty's pairing him with a league insider or former player will be crucial for his transition, but his championship experience and innovative approach suggest he will quickly adapt and impact the team's trajectory.
What the papers say
The AP News articles highlight DeMarco's extensive NBA experience, including his rise from video intern to assistant coach, and his success with the Warriors' defense. The NY Post emphasizes his championship pedigree and international coaching, noting his role with the Bahamian national team and his strategic fit for the Liberty. Contrasting opinions suggest that while his NBA background is impressive, his lack of WNBA experience could pose initial challenges, but his proven adaptability and modern coaching philosophy are expected to mitigate this.
How we got here
DeMarco has spent 14 years with the Warriors, progressing from video coordinator to assistant coach, contributing to four NBA titles. He also coaches the Bahamian national team, leading them to Olympic pre-qualifiers and near Olympic qualification. The Liberty sought a fresh perspective to stay competitive in the evolving WNBA, leading to his selection.
Go deeper
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The Golden State Warriors are an American professional basketball team based in San Francisco. The Warriors compete in the National Basketball Association, as a member of the league's Western Conference Pacific Division.
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Jonquel Orthea Jones is a Bahamian-Bosnian professional basketball player for the Connecticut Sun of the Women's National Basketball Association. She was drafted with the 6th overall pick in the 2016 WNBA Draft.
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Sandra Anne "Sandy" Brondello is an Australian women's basketball coach, and the current coach of the Phoenix Mercury of the WNBA. Brondello played in Australia, Germany and the WNBA before retiring to become a coach. The 1.70 m Brondello is one of Austra