Pressure doesn’t faze Jonathan Kolb. In fact, he embraces it. The general manager of the Liberty sees it as a chance to grow, echoing Billie Jean King’s famous line: “Pressure is a privilege.” Recently, Kolb made a controversial decision to part ways with head coach Sandy Brondello. This bold move has sparked plenty of questions, and Kolb addressed some of these during his first press conference after the season.
Kolb feels the weight of this moment. “We need to nail this,” he asserted about finding a new coach, his third search since starting with the Liberty in 2019.
He described the franchise’s situation as a “fork-in-the-road moment,” even though they just celebrated their first WNBA title a year ago. “You can stay the same or you can choose to evolve,” he explained. Kolb opted for change by not renewing Brondello’s contract for 2026, ending a four-year relationship that included a victory parade in Manhattan.
His decision wasn’t hasty. Kolb stressed it followed a thorough evaluation beyond just the recent season. The Liberty aims to be innovative and future-focused. “This is not a results-based organization. It’s about building a sustainable future,” he clarified.
This past season, Brondello faced scrutiny, particularly after the Liberty’s unexpected exit in the first round of the playoffs. Many fans and analysts pointed out her rotation choices and how she managed player minutes, especially against the Mercury.
Despite the disappointing finish, Kolb noted that the team supported Brondello after the loss. However, he believes a “fresh energy” is needed moving forward, especially with stars like Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Jonquel Jones leading the roster.
Finding Brondello’s replacement will be a careful process. Kolb described a clear vision of what they’re looking for, all while keeping certain details under wraps to avoid any negativity toward Brondello. He mentioned they’re interested in a candidate with NBA experience, emphasizing an open-minded approach to finding the right fit.
Experts within the basketball community view the Liberty coaching position as highly desirable. The team’s recent success and ownership’s investment have created a supportive environment. With a plan for a state-of-the-art practice facility set to open in 2027, the Liberty are positioning themselves among the WNBA’s elite teams.
Kolb noted a significant shift in how coaching candidates perceive the WNBA. “They see it as a destination, not just a stepping stone,” he said. This opens the door to a diverse pool of talent.
It’s important to recognize Brondello’s contributions. She leaves as the franchise’s most successful coach, leading the Liberty to their first championship. “Sandy did a commendable job managing challenges, including injuries and roster changes,” Kolb remarked. Yet, the Liberty are ready to welcome a new voice for their next chapter.
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