Chicago Sky hire Tyler Marsh as new coach

The Chicago Sky have announced their new head coach: Tyler Marsh.

At 36 years old, Marsh previously served as an assistant coach under Becky Hammon for the Las Vegas Aces, who achieved consecutive WNBA titles in 2022 and 2023.

The decision to hire Marsh came just five weeks after the Sky parted ways with Teresa Weatherspoon following her first season as a WNBA coach. This move happened a day after the Indiana Fever appointed Stephanie White as their new head coach. The hire was confirmed by a league source and first reported by ESPN on Saturday.

The dismissal of Weatherspoon, a Naismith Hall of Famer and WNBA founding member, generated criticism from fans, coaches, and players league-wide. Notably, star player Angel Reese, who was the 7th pick in the draft, expressed approval of the Marsh hire with a simple one-letter post: “W.”

Before joining Hammon’s coaching staff, Marsh worked as an assistant coach and video coordinator in the NBA for the Indiana Pacers and Toronto Raptors, contributing to the Raptors’ 2019 championship. Prior to his NBA roles, Marsh spent five years as an assistant coach in the G League.

Marsh is the second individual from Hammon’s coaching lineage to secure a head coaching position in the WNBA for the 2025 season. Former lead assistant Natalie Nakase was hired by the Golden State Valkyries in October to lead the expansion team.

“The Chicago Sky organization is thrilled to welcome Tyler Marsh as our new head coach to Skytown,” a team spokesperson stated. “Coach Marsh is highly regarded for his player development expertise and shares our commitment to contending for playoffs and championships annually.”

Marsh is recognized across the WNBA as a coach focused on player development. He is credited for Jackie Young’s improvement, particularly in 3-point shooting, leading to her Most Improved Player award in 2022. His experience will be crucial as the Sky nurture young talents like Kamilla Cardoso, Angel Reese, and upcoming first-round draft picks.

Marsh has consistently been on the radar for WNBA coaching positions during recent offseasons, showcasing the excitement surrounding his potential. However, his hiring by the Sky represents a calculated risk due to his relatively limited head coaching experience compared to the previous coach.

General manager Jeff Pagliocca emphasized the importance of structure and discipline in the Sky’s coaching search. Marsh’s appointment aligns with Pagliocca’s vision given the team’s significant roster changes through drafts and trades in the previous season.

Associated Press contributed.

Originally Published: November 2, 2024 at 5:01 PM CDT