Chris DeMarco is set to embark on a new chapter as the head coach of the New York Liberty, officially leaving his assistant coaching role with the Golden State Warriors after their December 29 game against the Brooklyn Nets. Embracing this opportunity wholeheartedly, DeMarco described joining the Liberty as an obvious and exciting choice, praising the organization as top-tier with the potential to secure a WNBA championship. He emphasized his desire to be part of a winning culture supported by strong ownership and management, all while enjoying the unique appeal of coaching in New York City.
Having grown up on Long Island, DeMarco will now lead one of the WNBA’s founding teams, following the departure of the franchise’s most successful coach, Sandy Brondello. With 14 years of NBA experience under his belt, including four championship titles with the Warriors, DeMarco also brings international coaching experience from leading the Bahamas men’s national basketball team. His connection to the Bahamas resonates with the Liberty’s star player Jonquel Jones, who is also Bahamian.
General Manager Jonathan Kolb highlighted DeMarco’s exceptional tactical skills and his ability to prepare for both NBA and WNBA roles, making him the standout candidate after a comprehensive two-month search. DeMarco joins a growing trend of NBA-experienced coaches taking helm roles in the WNBA, following coaches like Phoenix Mercury’s Nate Tibbetts and Golden State Valkyries’ Natalie Nakase, both of whom served in NBA-related positions before their WNBA head coaching jobs.
DeMarco has begun building relationships with Liberty players, including contract-holders Nyara Sabally and Leonie Fibich, while the team’s core stars—Sabrina Ionescu, Jonquel Jones, and Brianna Stewart—are expected to re-sign. He expressed excitement to lead a team with a championship mindset and an organization familiar with winning at the highest levels, highlighting the growth and potential for the Liberty to become a dominant force once again.
Fan Take: This coaching hire is a huge deal for WNBA enthusiasts, signaling the league’s rising prestige as top-tier basketball professionals transition from the NBA to lead teams. DeMarco’s championship experience and fresh perspective could launch the Liberty into serious title contention, potentially elevating the competitive level and visibility of the WNBA in the years ahead.
