Toronto Tempo to Hire WNBA Champion Coach Sandy Brondello
The Toronto Tempo, Canada’s new WNBA expansion team, has reportedly chosen Sandy Brondello as its first-ever head coach — a major move ahead of its debut season in 2026.
According to The Associated Press, Brondello is set to take the helm, though no official announcement has yet been made. The report cites a source familiar with the hire, adding that Brondello’s contract with the New York Liberty was not renewed after the 2024 season.
The news was first reported by The Next, a women’s basketball news outlet.
A Proven Winner
Brondello, 56, brings an elite résumé to Toronto. She led the New York Liberty to their first-ever WNBA championship in 2024, defeating the Minnesota Lynx in a thrilling Game 5 overtime victory.
During her four seasons in New York, Brondello compiled a 107–53 record, the most wins in Liberty franchise history.
“Sandy has a deep understanding of the game and a track record of building championship teams,” a league source said.
Before joining New York, Brondello spent eight seasons coaching the Phoenix Mercury, where she guided the team to a WNBA title in 2014 and another Finals appearance in 2021.
A New Era for Toronto Basketball
The Toronto Tempo will be the WNBA’s first Canadian franchise, set to begin play in 2026 after the league’s historic announcement earlier this year.
Brondello’s hiring signals the Tempo’s intent to establish a winning culture from day one. She was also reportedly in contention for head coaching openings with the Dallas Wings and Seattle Storm before accepting Toronto’s offer.
A Legacy of Leadership
Known for her tactical discipline and ability to develop stars, Brondello has coached some of the biggest names in women’s basketball — including Breanna Stewart, Sabrina Ionescu, and Diana Taurasi.
Her championship pedigree and international experience — as a former Australian national team player and coach — position her as one of the most respected voices in the sport.
With the Tempo preparing for their inaugural season, Brondello’s leadership could help turn Canada’s newest professional basketball team into an immediate contender.