Experienced Coach Returns To Wnba

Vanessa Nygaard Named Head Coach of Phoenix Mercury

Experienced Coach Returns to WNBA

The Phoenix Mercury have named Vanessa Nygaard as their new head coach, the team announced today. Nygaard, a three-time WNBA champion as a player, previously served as the head coach of the Indiana Fever from 2012 to 2016. She replaces Sandy Brondello, who was fired after five seasons with the Mercury.

Nygaard's Coaching Career

Nygaard began her coaching career as an assistant coach with the Los Angeles Sparks in 2008. She was promoted to head coach in 2010 and led the Sparks to the WNBA Finals in her first season. In 2012, she was hired as the head coach of the Indiana Fever and led the team to three WNBA Finals appearances, winning the championship in 2015.

Nygaard was fired by the Fever in 2016 and has since worked as an assistant coach with the New York Liberty and the Minnesota Lynx. She is known for her up-tempo style of play and her ability to get the most out of her players.

Nygaard's Return to the WNBA

Nygaard's return to the WNBA is a welcome one for the Mercury, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 2022 season. The Mercury finished with a record of 15-21 and missed the playoffs for the first time since 2013.

Nygaard inherits a talented roster led by three-time WNBA MVP Diana Taurasi, Brittney Griner, and Skylar Diggins-Smith. She will be tasked with getting the Mercury back to contention in the WNBA.

Nygaard's Comments

"I am honored and excited to be named the head coach of the Phoenix Mercury," Nygaard said in a statement. "This is a storied franchise with a rich tradition of success, and I am committed to building on that legacy."

"I believe in the talent and potential of this team, and I am confident that we can compete for a championship. I am eager to get started and work together with our players, staff, and fans to bring a title back to Phoenix."