PHOENIX — The Phoenix Mercury are adding a seasoned basketball coach to their staff ahead of the 2026 WNBA season.
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.
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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.
Phoenix Mercury head coach Nate Tibbetts talks with guard Kahleah Copper (2) during the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Aces at PHX Arena Jun 29, 2025. © Michael Chow/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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.
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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 Phoenix Mercury huddle up before their WNBA Finals game against Las Vegas Aces at Mortgage Matchup Center in Phoenix on Oct. 8, 2025. © Joe Rondone/The Republic / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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.
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WNBA teams are increasingly tapping into those pipelines for innovation and developmental expertise. For Phoenix, the hire signals a commitment to modern coaching roles.
Oct 10, 2025; Phoenix, Arizona, USA; A general view during the first half of game four of the 2025 WNBA Finals between the Phoenix Mercury and the Las Vegas Aces at Mortgage Matchup Center. Mandatory Credit: Joe Camporeale-Imagn Images
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.
*Get the BEST Phoenix sports insider information, and exclusive content. SIGN UP HERE to unlock our premium content!*Wendy Lopez is a reporter for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on her X account, @wlopezde