AP photo by Jeff Chiu
The New York Liberty are ushering in championship experience to Brooklyn by naming four-time NBA title winner Chris DeMarco as their new head coach, according to a team announcement today. This hiring signals a strategic focus on sustained excellence as the Liberty approach their milestone 30th Anniversary season in 2026.
A Proven Winner Heads to Brooklyn
DeMarco arrives in Brooklyn after 14 years with the Golden State Warriors, where he spent 11 seasons as an assistant coach under Steve Kerr. In that time, he helped the Warriors capture four NBA championships (2015, 2017, 2018, and 2022), contributing significantly to the player development and sophisticated basketball systems that defined one of the most memorable dynasties of the era.
DeMarco’s professional journey saw him progress from roles in video and scouting to Director of Player Development and ultimately assistant coach—an experience well-suited to the Liberty’s priorities of player growth, structural integrity, and lasting success.
Impact On the Liberty’s Future
DeMarco’s addition means more than just a new face on the sidelines—it’s a decisive step to introduce a championship-caliber mentality. His tenure in Golden State, built on player development and adaptive, system-based basketball, equips the Liberty to enhance their game plans and competitiveness.
With DeMarco part of the coaching team, the Warriors’ defense limited rivals to the league’s second-best shot quality across the last decade (49.9% qSQ per Second Spectrum). The Warriors also led the NBA in net rating three times during that stretch and set the regular-season wins record with 73 victories in 2015–16. These achievements highlight the analytical precision and defensive discipline he brings to Brooklyn.
As the Liberty build on recent successes and expand their fan base, DeMarco’s track record should drive development, structure, and championship-minded expectations.
Front Office Applauds the Appointment
“We are elated to bring Chris DeMarco on board as our head coach,” said Jonathan Kolb, General Manager of the New York Liberty. “Throughout this exhaustive search, we prioritized finding a leader with a proven record of elevating teams, implementing advanced systems, and envisioning a bright future for our organization.”
Kolb added, “Chris’s background inside a winning franchise has armed him with invaluable insight. His commitment to excellence and player development will be crucial as we work to raise the standard for the New York Liberty and our loyal fans.”
Ownership Stresses Vision for Growth
Liberty Governor Clara Wu Tsai spoke about the hire’s alignment with the franchise’s overarching mission in Brooklyn.
“This is a pivotal moment for the New York Liberty,” Wu Tsai noted. “We’re devoted to delivering top-tier basketball and an outstanding fan journey in Brooklyn, supporting this with significant investments in talent across our organization.”
Wu Tsai continued: “The search process was highly collaborative, focusing on shared values and a leader who could guide the Liberty to greater heights. Chris embodies championship habits and forward-thinking ideas—we’re excited to see him as part of our Liberty family.”
DeMarco Welcomes the Role
“I’m incredibly proud to join the Liberty and help maintain the exceptional standards this team represents—both professionally and with the fans,” DeMarco said. “Working alongside outstanding players as well as a committed front office and ownership group is a rare opportunity. I look forward to adding to the Liberty’s culture of success.”
International Impact and Coaching Strength
Beyond his NBA accomplishments, DeMarco has led the Bahamas Men’s National Team since 2019. His coaching helped the team reach a historic milestone by defeating Argentina in the finals of the 2024 Olympic Pre-Qualifying Tournament. He’s also played a role in Basketball Without Borders (BWB) Americas, nurturing global basketball talent.
A native of Appleton, Wisconsin, DeMarco now becomes the Liberty’s 10th head coach. At age 40, he brings a championship ethos, deep player development knowledge, and a modern perspective—elements seen as essential for the Liberty as they enter a landmark period.
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