Chris DeMarco is nearly ready to usher the New York Liberty into a new chapter. He is set to conclude his assistant coaching role with the Golden State Warriors on December 29, following their game against the Brooklyn Nets. After that, DeMarco will fully dedicate himself as the Liberty’s new head coach, calling the chance an obvious choice.
At his introductory press conference, DeMarco praised the Liberty as a “world-class organization” with the potential to win a WNBA championship. He was also drawn to the job by the team’s location in what he called “the best city in the world.” Speaking at Barclays Center, he emphasized the franchise’s championship culture and the strong collaboration between management and ownership as key reasons for joining.
DeMarco, who spent part of his childhood on Long Island, takes over one of the WNBA’s original teams after GM Jonathan Kolb parted ways with Sandy Brondello, the league’s winningest coach, in September. He brings 14 years of NBA experience, including player development and assistant coaching with the Warriors, where he won four titles. Since 2019, he has also led the Bahamas men’s national team, which recently secured a historic victory over host Argentina in the 2024 Olympic Qualification Tournament.
“I honestly feel like I’m now Bahamian,” DeMarco said, noting the Liberty’s connection to Bahamian star Jonquel Jones. He joined Kolb at a press event after completing a Warriors road trip in early December, where his image was displayed on a large screen outside Barclays Center.
Kolb revealed that DeMarco stood out after a two-month search and impressed during detailed tactical sessions. His ability to balance NBA coaching duties with planning for the Liberty was highly appealing. Kolb expressed confidence that DeMarco is the ideal leader to elevate the team to the anticipated level.
DeMarco’s appointment continues the trend of NBA-experienced coaches moving to the WNBA, following coaches like Phoenix Mercury’s Nate Tibbetts and Golden State Valkyries’ Natalie Nakase. He has consulted with both about making the transition and plans to keep learning as the WNBA season approaches.
At the press conference, Liberty owner Clara Wu Tsai and CEO Keir Clark sat alongside key players like Sabrina Ionescu, Nyara Sabally, Betnija Rainey Hamilton, and Isabelle Harrison. DeMarco has already connected with the team members, expressing excitement about coaching their talented group. Sabally, secured through 2026, was the only current player present, with several others facing contract decisions soon.
With the roster still coming into focus, DeMarco’s main goal is a WNBA championship. Kolb hopes the core trio of Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Brianna Stewart will re-sign this winter, providing a solid foundation.
“I’m very excited because of my championship background. Winning at the highest levels is tough, but this organization and team have the experience,” DeMarco said. He acknowledged last season’s missed opportunity for a repeat title but emphasized ongoing growth.
Fan Take: Chris DeMarco’s hire signals a strategic push by the Liberty to bring NBA-level expertise and championship mindset to the WNBA. For fans, this move could mean a more competitive, polished team that not only raises the Liberty’s profile but also boosts the league’s overall quality and visibility.
