If anyone felt the sting of the New York Liberty’s move to part ways with Sandy Brondello, it was Breanna Stewart. Shortly after the news broke, Stewart took to Instagram to share her feelings for the coach who guided her through two strong years in New York.
“Eternally thankful for you,” Breanna Stewart wrote in her story.
Breanna Stewart writes on her Instagram story: “eternally thankful for you” Sandy Brondello. pic.twitter.com/7DXb9fuyRs
— Jackie Powell (she/her) (@ClassicJpow) September 23, 2025
Sandy Brondello’s exit came as a shock. She had been extended through 2026 after leading the Liberty to their first championship in 2024, but the team’s abrupt playoff exit to the Phoenix Mercury forced the front office to rethink its direction.
The Liberty looked poised to advance after stealing Game 1 on the road, but their chance to close at home vanished in a 86-60 blowout. Phoenix then sealed the series on their floor, 79-73, leaving New York with more questions than answers.
“She has our back and we have hers”: Breanna Stewart backs Sandy Brondello before Liberty cut ties
After the Game 3 loss in Phoenix, Breanna Stewart was asked if she thought Brondello should return. Her response made it clear she never expected the coach’s job to even be in doubt.
“What the f*ck?” Stewart said. “To anybody that kinda questions Sandy… she has our back and we have hers.”
She added, “It wasn’t easy for anybody, but she came in with a positive attitude and a mindset to put us in our best position possible and best foot forward. We’re not going to be a team that points fingers.”
Last Friday:
“What would you say to those who question whether Sandy [Brondello] should be here next year to coach you guys again?”
Breanna Stewart: “What the f*ck? … To anybody that kinda questions Sandy… she has our back and we have hers.”pic.twitter.com/unZBvGwBfe https://t.co/sZsGhLxEms
— ClutchPoints (@ClutchPoints) September 23, 2025
In three seasons, Brondello compiled 107 regular-season wins and took the Liberty to two Finals appearances, finally breaking through for the franchise’s first title in 2024. But despite her record and Stewart’s loyalty, New York chose to move on after their first-round collapse.
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Dan has been active in sports since 2016 and has worked behind the scenes as a scriptwriter for basketball, volleyball, and other sports. At a time, Dan has also been working as a sports commentator for CBA Pilipinas. During the pandemic, he has also been actively writing betting articles for CashBet and BetNow.
