Nate Tibbetts introduced as Phoenix Mercury head coach

Nate Tibbetts became visibly emotional when formally introduced as the head coach of the Phoenix Mercury on Friday.

As the coach of the women’s basketball team, Tibbetts is reminded of his upbringing as a coach’s kid. His late father, Fred, was a highly-regarded coach in South Dakota, specializing in women’s and girls’ basketball.

“Growing up in girls’ practices and women’s college practices, and working girls’ camp since I was seven, my dad always put me to work,” Tibbetts shared. “I see this as a tremendous opportunity to become a head coach and continue to grow.”

Tibbetts, previously an assistant with the NBA’s Orlando Magic, is not the first hire by the Mercury without prior experience coaching in the women’s game. The last such hire was Paul Westhead from 2005-2007, who led the team, including superstar Diana Taurasi, to a title in 2007.

Taurasi expressed her support for Tibbetts by attending his press conference and sitting in the front row.

More: Phoenix Mercury hire head coach with no WNBA experience. But hey, he’s a ‘Girl Dad’

Tibbetts acknowledges that learning about the WNBA and its style of play will be a challenge. However, he plans to implement the fast-paced, three-point shooting style he is familiar with from his NBA experience. He also emphasizes the importance of defense and spacing the floor.

He believes his father would be proud to see him coaching at the highest level of women’s basketball.

“My upbringing and the experiences I’ve had witnessing my father’s treatment of his players have a profound impact on how I will treat our players here,” Tibbetts explained. “It’s tough for me to talk about him without getting emotional. He was someone I looked up to, and I know he’s looking down on me now.”

Dealing with Early Controversy

The Mercury’s decision to hire Tibbetts has faced criticism. Not only does he lack experience as a head coach or coaching in the women’s game, but he will also be the highest-paid coach in WNBA history. Becky Hammon of the Aces currently holds that distinction with a salary of over $1 million per season.

Earlier this month, owner Mat Ishbia received praise for his commitment to investing over $100 million in a state-of-the-art practice facility for the Mercury, ensuring equal treatment for the team compared to the Suns.

“Nate’s hiring and Mat’s investment in this position reflect how we intend to conduct business with the Phoenix Mercury,” stated General Manager Nick U’Ren, who was present at the press conference. “We aim to treat our players as the professionals they are and provide them with first-class infrastructure. This includes investing in our head coach, building a top-notch practice facility, offering excellent amenities, and providing comfortable accommodations. We hope this attract talent and spreads a positive reputation.”

However, word of the hire has not been entirely positive. Many have questioned whether interim head coach Nikki Blue was considered for the position. Blue, who has experience in both college women’s basketball and as an assistant in the WNBA, took over midway through the previous season after Vanessa Nygaard’s departure. The Mercury had the worst record in the league, finishing with a 9-31 record and an 11-game losing streak.

U’Ren clarified that he has nothing negative to say about Blue, but believed that Tibbetts brought something different to the table that made him the preferred choice.

“Being an interim coach is incredibly challenging, and I appreciate the work Nikki did in a difficult situation last year,” U’Ren expressed. “But ultimately, our excitement about working with Nate stems from his ability to develop players, his analytical approach, and his basketball philosophy.”

Tibbetts has chosen to avoid online reactions, but he is aware of the potential perceptions surrounding his hiring.

“I don’t spend much time online. Speaking with the players and witnessing their welcoming attitudes has made me less concerned about external opinions,” Tibbetts shared. “I understand the sensitivity of the situation, and I take responsibility for being one of three male head coaches in the WNBA. Whether people agree or disagree, I am committed to doing the best job I can.”

This article was originally published on Arizona Republic: Nate Tibbetts introduced as Phoenix Mercury head coach, addresses controversy