Liberty Hire Chris DeMarco as New Head Coach

Liberty End Coaching Search with Championship Pedigree Hire

After an exhaustive eight-week search, the New York Liberty have found their next leader. The team has agreed to terms with Chris DeMarco, a four-time NBA champion and Golden State Warriors assistant coach, to become the franchise's 10th head coach. The move brings a fresh perspective and championship-winning DNA to Liberty basketball.

The Rise of a Championship Architect

DeMarco, 40, embodies the modern coaching journey. Starting as a video intern in 2012, he meticulously climbed the Warriors' organizational ladder through roles like video coordinator, advanced scout, and director of player development. As the longest-tenured assistant on Steve Kerr's staff, he's been instrumental in orchestrating the Warriors' defensive schemes – currently ranked top-10 in the NBA.

"He emerged late in the process as a strong candidate. His championship pedigree, comprehensive knowledge on both ends of the floor, and experience in high-stakes moments impressed Kolb."

Strategic Fit for Liberty's Evolution

General Manager Jonathan Kolb prioritized innovation for Liberty basketball, and DeMarco brings exactly that. While known for defensive prowess, he's immersed in cutting-edge offensive systems – from the Warriors' motion-based reads to the Heat's pace-and-space motion principles he studied with consultant Noah LaRoche. His work developing players like Jordan Poole during the 2021-22 season adds another dimension to his résumé.

Connections That Ignite Potential

DeMarco's background offers intriguing synergies with Liberty stars:

• Sabrina Ionescu: His decade-long study of Steph Curry's defensive coverages could unlock new dimensions for the Liberty's point guard.
• Jonquel Jones: A pre-existing bond exists through his role as head coach of the Bahamian men's national team since 2019, where he guided Buddy Hield, Eric Gordon, and Deandre Ayton to Olympic pre-qualifier glory.

Win-Now Mentality Meets WNBA Transition

Despite lacking WNBA experience, DeMarco embraces the pressure of a championship-contending roster. Expect Liberty to pair him with an experienced assistant – potentially a former player – similar to the Nate Tibbetts-Kristi Toliver structure in Phoenix. His immediate task: translate NBA-level systems to the WNBA's unique physicality and pace.

The Next Chapter Begins

With DeMarco at the helm, the Liberty enter a new era defined by adaptability and championship DNA. His ability to evolve with the game while maintaining defensive principles could be the catalyst that finally ends New York's championship drought. As he transitions from the Bay Area to Brooklyn, all eyes will be on how his championship-caliber mindset reshapes Liberty basketball.