The New York Liberty’s hunt for a new head coach came with an unexpected twist involving one of basketball’s brightest stars.
According to a new report, Sabrina Ionescu reached out to Stephen Curry to get his input before the team moved forward with hiring longtime Warriors assistant Chris DeMarco.
Sabrina Ionescu Consulted Stephen Curry for Chris DeMarco
The connection between the two sharpshooters has only grown over the years, and now their relationship appears to have played a meaningful role in shaping the Liberty’s future.
According to Anthony Slater, Ionescu contacted Curry to gather insight about DeMarco as the Liberty narrowed its coaching search.
The move makes sense: DeMarco has been part of Golden State’s staff since 2012, rising from video intern to assistant coach and helping the franchise secure four NBA championships.
Few players have spent more time around him than Curry, and Ionescu wanted the perspective of someone who knew DeMarco’s coaching style from inside the gym.
Ionescu’s relationship with Curry stretches back nearly a decade, starting when she emerged as a superstar at Oregon. Over the years, Curry has praised her work ethic, creativity as a scorer, and influence on the next generation of shooters.
Their bond became even more visible during the historic NBA-WNBA 3-point faceoff at the 2024 All-Star Weekend. Curry won, but Ionescu finished only three points behind.
With the Liberty looking to rebound after a disappointing 2025 playoff exit and the firing of coach Sandy Brondello, Ionescu’s voice carried weight.
New York finished 27-17 and secured the No. 2 seed in the East before being knocked out from the 2025 playoffs by the Phoenix Mercury in a deciding Game 3 of the first round. With championship expectations returning, the team needed the right leader.
DeMarco emerged as a late but strong candidate. The Liberty had spoken with notable names such as former Brooklyn Nets assistant Will Weaver, Phoenix Mercury associate head coach Kristi Toliver, and Raptors assistant Jama Mahlalela.
But DeMarco’s player development background and championship pedigree made him an appealing choice, and Curry’s endorsement essentially sealed it.
DeMarco Steps Into a Title-Ready Situation in New York
DeMarco takes over a Liberty roster built to contend immediately. New York won the WNBA title in 2024 and remains anchored by Ionescu, one of the greatest long-range shooters in league history.
The star guard holds the WNBA record for points in a 3-point contest (37), led the league in threes in 2023, and continues to model a shooting philosophy inspired by Curry himself.
Now, with a new coach she personally vetted, Ionescu and the Liberty will look to reclaim their place at the top, with a piece of Golden State’s championship DNA guiding them from the sidelines.