In a move that has sparked both admiration and debate, two-time championship-winning coach Sandy Brondello turned down a more lucrative offer to lead the Toronto Tempo, prioritizing collaboration and the opportunity to build a team from the ground up. But here’s where it gets controversial: in an era where money often talks, Brondello’s decision raises a thought-provoking question—is financial gain always the ultimate priority for top-tier coaches, or does the promise of a perfect fit outweigh the paycheck?
Brondello’s journey into free agency began this fall after the New York Liberty unexpectedly fired her in September, less than a year after she led the franchise to its first championship. Once available, she became one of the most sought-after coaches in the WNBA, with the Dallas Wings, Seattle Storm, and Toronto Tempo all vying for her expertise. The Wings, in particular, acted swiftly, parting ways with first-year head coach Chris Koclanes just days after Brondello hit the market.
Like any top free agent, Brondello had to weigh her priorities. For some, location is key; for others, it’s the size of the contract. But Brondello fell into a different category altogether—she prioritized the potential for success and the alignment with a team’s vision. Despite receiving a more financially enticing offer from another franchise, she chose the Tempo because of the strong connection she felt with their front office.
“This is the place I wanted to be,” Brondello shared on Tuesday. “The idea of building a team from scratch—that’s what truly excited me.”
While the exact terms of her deal remain undisclosed, sources confirm Brondello has signed a multi-year contract that places her among the highest-paid coaches in the WNBA, earning seven figures annually. This puts her in the same league as the Phoenix Mercury’s Nate Tibbetts and the Las Vegas Aces’ Becky Hammon, both of whom are known to earn at least $1 million per year. Hammon, in fact, made history in 2022 as the first WNBA coach to secure a $1 million annual salary, a move confirmed by Aces owner Mark Davis. Since then, she’s led the franchise to three titles in four years, solidifying her value.
And this is the part most people miss: when asked in October if Hammon should be the highest-paid coach in the league, Davis playfully dodged the question. “Oh, she’s not?” he quipped, before praising her as “unbelievable.” This subtle exchange hints at the ongoing debate over coach compensation in the WNBA—a topic that’s as complex as it is contentious.
With Brondello’s decision, four of the five WNBA coaching vacancies have now been filled, leaving only the Liberty’s position open. Former Liberty assistant Sonia Raman joined the Seattle Storm, reportedly signing a multiyear deal with a high six-figure salary that could surpass $1 million with bonuses. Meanwhile, the Portland Fire hired NBA assistant Alex Sarama, and the Dallas Wings brought in longtime college coach Jose Fernandez.
Brondello’s choice to prioritize fit over finances opens up a broader conversation: In a league where resources are often limited, should coaches focus on maximizing their earnings, or is there greater value in aligning with a team’s long-term vision? What do you think? Is Brondello’s decision a blueprint for future coaches, or an exception in a money-driven industry? Let’s hear your thoughts in the comments!
