Can the Dream, Sky, Fever, and other WNBA teams be revitalized by new coaches?
The WNBA is undergoing a significant transformation as several teams, including the Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, and Indiana Fever, have appointed new coaches to rejuvenate their franchises. This wave of coaching changes raises the question: Can these teams be revitalized by their new leadership?
Atlanta Dream
The Atlanta Dream have made strategic additions to their coaching staff, aiming to leverage extensive WNBA experience. LaToya Sanders, a former WNBA player and assistant coach with the Washington Mystics, has joined as an assistant coach under Head Coach Karl Smesko. Sanders brings a championship pedigree, having been the starting center for the Mystics during their 2019 WNBA championship run. Her recent coaching experience includes serving as Associate Head Coach for the Mystics in 2023-24. citeturn0news8
Additionally, Brandi Poole has been hired as an assistant coach, bringing a wealth of experience from both the WNBA and collegiate levels. The Dream have also promoted Brooklyn Cartwright to Assistant General Manager, reflecting a commitment to strengthening their front office. citeturn0search2
These moves are designed to enhance the team’s performance, building upon a core that includes players like Rhyne Howard, Allisha Gray, Tina Charles, and Jordin Canada. The Dream’s leadership believes that the infusion of experienced coaching will be instrumental in improving their standings after finishing 8th last season. citeturn0news12
Chicago Sky
The Chicago Sky have also undergone significant coaching changes. Tanisha Wright, formerly the head coach of the Atlanta Dream from 2021 to 2024, has joined the Sky as an assistant head coach under Tyler Marsh. Wright’s extensive 14-season WNBA playing career, primarily with the Seattle Storm, was marked by her defensive prowess. Her coaching experience is expected to be invaluable in developing the Sky’s young talents, including 2024 draft picks Angel Reese and Kamilla Cardoso. citeturn0search6
Marsh has also added former WNBA player Courtney Paris to his coaching team, aiming to build a winning culture in Chicago. The Sky’s leadership is optimistic that these coaching changes will translate into on-court success, particularly in nurturing the potential of their recent draft selections.
Indiana Fever
The Indiana Fever have brought back Stephanie White as their head coach. White, who previously coached the Fever from 2014 to 2016, returns with a focus on guiding superstar Caitlin Clark. Clark had an outstanding debut season, earning Rookie of the Year honors and setting numerous records. White emphasizes the importance of Clark becoming not just a great player but also a great leader, aiming to improve her on-court and off-court abilities. With White’s experience as a former WNBA player and coach, she aims to support Clark in navigating the pressures of stardom and leading the Fever to a successful season. citeturn0news11
Impact of Coaching Changes
The influx of new coaching talent across these teams reflects a broader trend in the WNBA, where franchises are seeking to revitalize their programs through experienced leadership. The emphasis on hiring individuals with substantial WNBA experience, both as players and coaches, underscores the league’s commitment to fostering a competitive and dynamic environment.
These coaching changes are expected to bring fresh perspectives and strategies, potentially leading to improved team performances. The success of these initiatives will depend on how well the new coaches integrate with existing team dynamics and how effectively they can develop and maximize the potential of their players.
