Former New York Liberty championship coach Sandy Brondello received a heartfelt reception from fans and former players during her emotional return to New York on Wednesday night as head coach of the expansion Toronto Tempo.
Brondello, who guided the New York Liberty to their first WNBA championship in franchise history in 2024, was welcomed with a standing ovation before tipoff as fans acknowledged her contributions to the organization. The tribute marked her first game back in New York since parting ways with the Liberty after the 2025 season.
The veteran coach was visibly appreciative of the support, waving to the crowd while receiving applause from the home fans. Several of her former players also greeted her warmly during pregame activities, underscoring the strong relationships she built during her successful tenure with the franchise.
New York further honored Brondello with a special tribute video during the first quarter. The presentation also recognized her husband and longtime assistant coach, Olaf Lange, along with former Liberty players Isabelle Harrison and Nyara Sabally, both now part of Toronto’s organization. The crowd responded with another standing ovation following the video.
Brondello leaves behind a remarkable legacy in New York. After taking over in 2022, she compiled a regular-season record of 107 wins and 53 losses, becoming the winningest coach in Liberty history. Her tenure peaked with the franchise’s historic championship victory in 2024. However, a disappointing first-round playoff exit in 2025 led management to make a coaching change.
Despite the circumstances of her departure, Brondello expressed gratitude for her time with the Liberty while embracing her new challenge in Toronto.
The return also carried special significance for Sabally, who played a key role in New York’s championship-winning campaign before being selected by Toronto in the WNBA expansion draft. She reflected fondly on her memories with the Liberty and the support she received from fans during her time in New York.
Toronto’s visit highlighted the impressive start by the league’s newest franchise. Entering the matchup, the Tempo held a 5-4 record, matching the Liberty and demonstrating early promise as the WNBA’s first team based outside the United States.
As Brondello continues building Toronto’s future, her warm reception in New York served as a reminder of the lasting impact she had on one of the WNBA’s most successful recent championship teams.