Buddy Hield, the talented guard for the Golden State Warriors, has expressed his unwavering confidence in Chris DeMarco becoming the new head coach of the WNBA’s New York Liberty. Hield’s trust stems from their past collaboration with the Bahamas men’s national basketball team, where DeMarco demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities.
Reflecting on his experience, Hield recalls a pivotal moment when he arrived late to a film session. DeMarco’s decision to lock him out was a clear demonstration of his commitment to discipline, emphasizing that respect and punctuality are vital, regardless of a player’s status. This approach resonated with Hield and served to elevate team morale, setting a tone for what a player-centered coach should embody.
Since taking the helm of the Bahamas national team in 2019, DeMarco has transformed the program, leading it to be competitive on the international stage. He has played an essential role in driving positive changes, such as improving travel logistics and film analysis processes, all of which have contributed to the team’s growth. Hield believes their partnership has the potential to reshape the Bahamas’ basketball future, especially as they strive for Olympic qualification in 2028.
Hield’s move to the Warriors this past summer was significantly influenced by DeMarco’s presence. The connection and trust built between the two helped Hield feel secure, particularly as he began his journey with a new team. DeMarco’s experience with the Warriors, spanning over a decade, added to Hield’s confidence.
Anticipating DeMarco’s transition to the Liberty, Hield recognizes the importance of this new chapter for both DeMarco and the WNBA team. He expresses excitement for DeMarco’s future while also looking forward to the remainder of their time together with the Warriors. Hield acknowledges that while their day-to-day interactions may change, the bond they have formed will endure.
The appointment of Chris DeMarco to lead the New York Liberty marks a promising development for both the coach and the team. With Hield’s endorsement, it is clear that DeMarco is poised to bring a wealth of knowledge and a successful mentality to his new role, potentially setting the stage for the Liberty to achieve new heights.