A page has been turned this week at the Mystics, where the “Thibault” era is officially over, between Mike Thibault, coach from 2013 to 2022 then GM, and Erik Thibault, assistant since 2013 before succeeding his father there at two years old.
To try to start with a new dynamic after a season without playoffs, the Washington franchise announced the signing of the new leaders of the organization, through the voice of Michael Winger, president of “Monumental Basketball” (structure including the Mystics, the Wizards and the Capital City Go-Go). Jamila Wideman was chosen for the position of GM, while Sydney Johnson will have her first experience as a “head coach” on a WNBA bench.
Jamila Wideman arrives from the NBA office where she worked for six years, including as vice president of the player development department. Sydney Johnson served for five years in the American federation. Last season, he was an assistant coach for Angel Reese's Chicago Sky.
Mystics without playoffs since their title
“Jamila's breadth of experience, fundamental skills and passion for developing the whole athlete make her the ideal person to usher in the new era of the Mystics. Likewise, Sydney brings an exceptional combination of acuity, tenacity and empathy that will elevate our game and galvanize the team around the new direction of this champion franchise.”said Michael Winger.
WNBA champions in 2019, the Mystics have not passed a round of the playoffs since, until missing the final stages this summer, finishing with a record of 14 wins for 26 losses. Injuries to Shakira Austin and Brittney Sykes did not help, in addition to the case of Elena Delle Donne, the star of the team, who chose to take a break from her basketball career.
With the signing of Sydney Johnson, the seven coaching positions left vacant since the end of last season have now found (re)takers.
