Phoenix Mercury bring in G League leader T.C. Swirsky to coaching staff

According to NBA insider Michael Scotto, Washington Wizards G League assistant coach T.C. Swirsky will join Nate Tibbetts’ staff, marking a rapid rise for one of the sport’s emerging development minds.

Swirsky most recently worked within the Wizards’ G League system after building a reputation with the Memphis Hustle — the Memphis Grizzlies’ G League affiliate — as head coach. He was promoted to the role before the 2024-25 season after serving as a lead assistant and continued to climb through the organization.

The former Hustle head coach brings a background that aligns with Tibbetts’ emphasis on player development and system continuity. The Mercury, coming off a transitional season, are expected to prioritize infrastructure and player growth — making Swirsky’s G League experience especially valuable.

With Memphis, Swirsky oversaw a roster shaped by constant movement — a common challenge in the G League. The Hustle finished 15-19 in his season as head coach, reflecting a team balancing assignments, call-ups and injuries. Managing all of that while maintaining structure has helped define his coaching profile.

The G League has become a laboratory not just for the NBA, but also for the WNBA, as these environments position coaches to help bridge gaps between development and elite levels.

WNBA teams are increasingly tapping into those pipelines for innovation and developmental expertise. For Phoenix, the hire signals a commitment to modern coaching roles.

For Swirsky, it’s another step in a fast-moving career shaped by adaptability — a skill he will carry into his transition to the WNBA.