From last place in 2023 to a playoff berth in 2024, the Phoenix Mercury didn’t just rebuild—they redefined. With Tibbetts at the helm and stars like Kahleah Copper and Natasha Cloud leading the charge, the franchise clawed its way back into contention. A 19-21 finish and a first-round exit may not scream success, but make no mistake: The Tibbetts era has officially begun.
After a disastrous 9-31 season, Tibbetts brought his wealth of NBA coaching experience, leading the team to a 13-12 record and securing a playoff spot. His journey started at Roosevelt High School before continuing at the South Dakota Coyotes in college. Eager to dive into coaching, he began as an assistant with the Sioux Falls Cougars right after graduation.
However, the real turning point in Tibbetts’ career came with his assistant roles at powerhouse NBA teams like the Cleveland Cavaliers, Portland Trail Blazers, and Orlando Magic. These high-profile stints weren’t just job titles—they were the proving grounds that shaped the coach ready to take on the monumental task of rebuilding the Phoenix Mercury.
But while Phoenix laid the foundation for a new culture, one question looms large: just how much is the WNBA’s highest-paid coach making to lead this turnaround?
What is Nate Tibbetts’ Contract with the Phoenix Mercury? How Long is the Deal?
When the Phoenix Mercury hired Tibbetts in October 2023, they didn’t just name a head coach—they rewrote the WNBA’s coaching salary history. As ESPN’s Adrian Wojnarowski reported, “The Phoenix Mercury are hiring Nate Tibbetts as their new head coach, and they will make him the highest paid coach in WNBA history.”
Indiana Fever guard Caitlin Clark (22) goes up for a shot over Phoenix Mercury guard Kahleah Copper (2) on June 30, 2024, at Footprint Center in Phoenix.
Tibbetts joined the Mercury after serving as an assistant coach with the Orlando Magic since 2021. His hire followed a disastrous season for Phoenix, one plagued by injuries to Brittney Griner and Diana Taurasi, and the absence of Skylar Diggins-Smith. The franchise finished dead last, prompting the dismissal of both head coach Vanessa Nygaard and interim coach Nikki Blue.
While the exact contract length remains undisclosed, it’s clear that Tibbetts’ compensation exceeds the $1 million per year earned by Las Vegas Aces coach Becky Hammon. Phoenix’s new ownership, led by billionaire Mat Ishbia, signaled ambition, backing both Tibbetts and GM Nick U’Ren with strong financial commitments. Ishbia also pledged $100 million toward a joint Mercury-Suns training facility.
How Much Will Nate Tibbetts Earn in the 2025 WNBA Season?
In 2024, Tibbetts was reported by Front Office Sports to be earning $1.2 million per year, making him the highest-paid head coach in the league. While full contract details are private, that figure puts him above Becky Hammon’s historic deal and resets the market for WNBA coaching salaries.
With Tibbetts at the helm, the Mercury has a new structure, financial firepower, and a coach hungry to prove himself. As Phoenix looks to rise from its past and rebuild its future, one thing is certain: the stakes—and the salary—have never been higher.
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