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WNBA Caitlin Clark (left) and Sandy Brondello (right). Credits: Imagn

'Yes, My Son Hit Me Up': Caitlin Clark Trade Of Sandy Brondello In WNBA All-Star Game Draft Gets Liberty HC’s Reaction

Originally posted on Hardwood Heroics | By Dan Agulto | Last updated Jul 10, 2025 10:46 AM ET

Caitlin Clark’s first WNBA All-Star appearance just added another first to her growing list: trading a coach during the draft.

Caitlin Clark and co-captain Napheesa Collier sent Cheryl Reeve to Team Collier and brought Liberty head coach Sandy Brondello into their camp. The move wasn’t planned in advance, but it was perfectly in sync with the tone Caitlin Clark has set since entering the league, fun, fearless, and never short on flair.

Brondello later reacted to the surprising move, confirming it caught even her off guard.

“And I got traded, yes, my son hit me up. I’ve created history, this is awesome. I got traded as a coach. But look, I get to coach with Sabrina, I’m on Caitlin Clark’s in Indianapolis. What a great show. So we’ll get out there and have some fun.”

Though the WNBA hasn’t officially documented coaching trades during All-Star weekend before, the draft’s televised format left plenty of room for entertainment. Caitlin Clark took full advantage. She didn’t hesitate in swapping Reeve out, which caught attention considering the coach’s involvement in the controversial Olympic roster decisions earlier this year.

From surprise trades to viral moments, Caitlin Clark continues to make every event feel larger than life. Even before tip-off, her fingerprints are all over the WNBA All-Star Weekend showing she’s not just a participant in the league, she’s actively reshaping it.

Caitlin Clark Reflects on Injury Struggles and the Path to Recovery

Caitlin Clark hasn’t had it easy this season. After battling both a quad strain and groin issues, she missed a chunk of the WNBA schedule. Through all of it, Caitlin Clark focused not just on physical healing, but on mental strength and patience.

 ”It’s definitely challenging, and I think it’s been so challenging because I’ve never been through it before … So, just giving myself grace and giving myself grace as I continue to come back.”

Jul 9, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) shoots the ball while Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

Caitlin Clark acknowledged how unnerving it was to sit out games she was used to dominating. She leaned on teammates and coaches, keeping her role as a leader intact even from the bench.

As she ramped up toward her return, Caitlin Clark adjusted her preparation. She’s not chasing minutes, but chasing quality and energy. She spoke about focusing on team chemistry, even during rehab drills, to stay connected.

Jul 9, 2025; Indianapolis, Indiana, USA; Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) dribbles the ball while Golden State Valkyries guard Tiffany Hayes (15) defends in the first half at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-Imagn Images

The sophomore star now blends superstar skill with self-forgiveness. And as she steps back onto the court, she’s coming out a fighter.

This article first appeared on Hardwood Heroics and was syndicated with permission.

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