PHOENIX — Phoenix Mercury associate head coach Kristi Toliver is at the center of the WNBA’s head-coaching search as teams look to strengthen their rosters and staffs ahead of the 2026 season.
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Mar 5, 2022; Dallas, Texas, USA; Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Kristi Toliver before the game between the Dallas Mavericks and the Sacramento Kings at the American Airlines Center. Mandatory Credit: Jerome Miron-USA TODAY Sports
According to The New York Times, Toliver has drawn interest from the New York Liberty to become the team’s next head coach. The report sparked excitement among fans online and some uncertainty among those in the Valley.
Considered as one of the brightest minds in basketball, Toliver joined the Mercury coaching staff in 2023 after spending time as an assistant coach in the NBA for four years. Toliver is also a former two-time WNBA champion and All-Star, making her transition from player to coach in 2018 with the Washington Wizards and later the Dallas Mavericks.
With experience in both professional leagues, Toliver brings a unique perspective to the WNBA.
Aug 28, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts reacts against the Chicago Sky at Phx Arena. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
During her time with Phoenix, Toliver has helped guide the Mercury through a rebuild and shape a competitive team despite injuries to key stars, leading the franchise on a deep playoff run to the Finals this season. Players have applauded her basketball knowledge and have been vocal in their support for her to become a head coach.
“[Toliver is] a phenomenal coach,” Mercury forward Alyssa Thomas said post-game on Oct. 10. “She definitely deserves her chance at being a head coach. Somebody that’s played and really knows the game. She’s ready for this moment.”
May 20, 2022; San Francisco, California, USA; Dallas Mavericks assistant coach Kristi Toliver during warm-ups before game two of the 2022 Western Conference Finals against the Golden State Warriors at Chase Center. Mandatory Credit: Kelley L. Cox-USA TODAY Sports
Toliver hasn’t only been a favorite among Phoenix players, but among fans from all over the league.
Liberty hiring Kristi Toliver would be a great way for me to still care about them post Ballhalla shaking up my entire life. https://t.co/bCKSXX4Uef
— Malik Washington Modern Day Willie Beamen (@apgripsh) October 15, 2025
Kristi Toliver, YOU are a Dallas Wing https://t.co/JzmSWYchy7 pic.twitter.com/7gwNexsp7c
— Elle 💕✨| Azzi Fudd POY & MOP | B2ASS (@elleaitch22) October 12, 2025
I think Seattle should hire Kristi Toliver, New York hire Lindsay Harding (or whatever), Dallas hire Sandy Brondello, and Toronto hire Jenny Boucek. These are my thoughts.
— Scorpio’s Moon 🌘 (@CeRich370657) October 17, 2025
Kristi Toliver has paid her dues and it’s time for her to get a shot as a WNBA head coach With multiple openings this offseason her name has to be in the mix.
❤️ @iHeartRadio: https://t.co/Dx4xUgvFqr
▶️ @YouTube: https://t.co/2hqUd0LbVK pic.twitter.com/KyeQlUJbCE
— In Case You Missed It with Khristina Williams (@ICYMIwithKW) October 17, 2025
The Phoenix associate coach’s leave would be a bittersweet moment for fans who were beginning to see what she could offer. Someone with her understanding of the game is highly sought after, and it would be challenging for the Mercury to find a replacement with her experience on short notice.
However, The New York Times report highlights the depth of the Mercury’s staff. It’s not one person turning the wheels. It’s a community of people with different experiences working together to make the team succeed.
The Phoenix Mercury huddle up before their WNBA Finals game against the Las Vegas Aces at the Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on Oct. 8, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
Toliver’s journey is an example of the league’s evolution as expansion looms and more eyes turn toward its product, with teams looking to put the best possible product on the court.
For the Mercury, it’s waiting on the decision of one of their own as she determines where she plans to take her sought-after basketball experience next season and how to fill in her position if she leaves.
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Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde
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