Landon Buford
On Thursday evening, ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported that the Dallas Mavericks had hired two-time WNBA champion Kristi Toliver, as an assistant coach, who previously spent time with Washington Wizards coaching staff.
Following Woj’s report, WNBA Insider Khristina Williams reported that Toliver is under contract with the Los Angeles Sparks until through the 2022 season, and coaching in the NBA would not interfere with any WNBA contract obligations.
On Thursday evening, after the Sparks beat the Atlanta Dream 66-64, Toliver spoke about her new role in Dallas and being a part of Jason Kidd’s staff.
“I’m super excited and it is a great opportunity that I’m excited to be a part of. Jason Kidd obviously as a player, hall of fame is a great coach and somebody I am going to learn a lot from,” said Toliver.
“He and the entire staff, but I’m just happy for the opportunity to be back in the NBA and continue to grow as a coach. I still have a lot to learn, but I am excited to be alongside Luka and company.”
Sparks reporter John W. Davis of Winsidr would later ask Toliver why point guards end up becoming coaches.
“We have to see the game. We have to know every position.”
Sparks play again on Sunday against the New York Liberty at the Barclay Center at 1 pm EST.
