The WNBA coaching landscape has seen significant changes this offseason.
Seven head coaches have left their previous organizations, and eight new head coaches have been hired. None of the fired head coaches have been rehired elsewhere.
Three of the new head coaches, including Karl Smesko (Dream), Lynne Roberts (Sparks), and Chris Koclanes (Wings), are transitioning from college coaching.
Three coaches with WNBA assistant coaching experience – Tyler Marsh (Sky), Natalie Nakase (Valkyries), and Sydney Johnson (Wings) have been promoted to head coaches.
Rachid Meziane, with experience from overseas basketball, has also been hired as a new head coach.
For a comprehensive overview of all coaching changes this offseason, check out SB Nation’s detailed report.
Atlanta Dream — fired Tanisha Wright, hired Karl Smesko
Photo by Adam Hagy/NBAE via Getty Images
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Dan Padover remains as the general manager for his fourth season as head coach.
Karl Smesko has been the head coach of FGCU’s women’s basketball team since 2002 and has a remarkable winning percentage in NCAA Division I basketball.
Smesko is highly regarded by his peers and known for his expertise in X’s and O’s.
In his press conference, Smesko emphasized his style of play that focuses on fun, exciting basketball.
