Kristi Toliver Emerges as Top Candidate for WNBA Coaching Vacancies

PHOENIX – Mercury associate head coach Kristi Toliver is gaining attention in WNBA circles as a strong candidate for one of five head coaching vacancies across the league. Notably, she is considered a potential successor to Sandy Brondello, who was recently let go by the New York Liberty.

The Mercury have granted the Liberty permission to interview Toliver. Sources indicate that a formal interview is anticipated to occur after the conclusion of the current WNBA season.

In addition to her candidacy for the Liberty, Toliver has also interviewed for the head coach position with the Toronto franchise, which is set to begin its inaugural season. Other candidates for the Toronto job include Brondello and Indiana Pacers assistant coach Jenny Boucek.

The Liberty parted ways with Brondello after their elimination in Round 1 of the playoffs at the hands of the Mercury. The decision marks a significant change for a franchise that has struggled to find consistent success.

Kristi Toliver played in the WNBA from 2009 to 2023, winning two championships during her career, including one with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2016 and another in 2019.