Liberty GM Jonathan Kolb Wins 2023 WNBA Executive of the Year

Liberty general manager Jonathan Kolb named 2023 WNBA Executive of the Year after leading team to record-breaking season.

In a thrilling announcement made on Thursday, the WNBA declared Jonathan Kolb, the general manager of the Liberty, as the recipient of the prestigious 2023 WNBA Executive of the Year award. Kolb emerged victorious with an impressive total of 20 votes, surpassing his competitors, Greg Bibb from the Dallas Wings and Darius Taylor, the GM of the Connecticut Sun, who received 15 and 0 votes, respectively. It is important to note that the voting process prohibits executives from voting for themselves, making this recognition even more significant.

Expressing his appreciation for the honor, Kolb humbly stated, "I was incredibly humbled by it. It's an award that means a lot because there's only one that goes around every year. If you're in this position, it's something that you aim for especially because it's voted on by your peers. And that just means a great deal." Kolb's gratitude is evident, as he recognizes the significance of being acknowledged by his fellow professionals in the industry.

Kolb's outstanding achievements during the busy offseason undoubtedly caught the attention of his peers. He orchestrated a series of strategic moves that set the stage for a record-breaking season for the Liberty. In January, Kolb made waves by acquiring star center Jonquel Jones and defensive specialist Kayla Thornton in a three-team blockbuster deal. This marked the beginning of a busy offseason that continued to unfold with remarkable signings.

The Liberty's roster was further bolstered when Kolb successfully negotiated deals with two-time champion Breanna Stewart and five-time All-Star Courtney Vandersloot. These international meetings resulted in both players officially joining the squad, solidifying the team's reputation as a super-team. Kolb's ability to attract such high-caliber talent is a testament to his exceptional leadership and negotiation skills.

Furthermore, Kolb secured the future of the team by re-signing Sabrina Ionescu, their former No.1 overall pick, to a multi-year extension. This agreement ensures that Ionescu will remain a vital part of the Liberty until the 2025 season. Kolb's commitment to building a sustainable and successful organization is evident in his strategic decisions.

Most recently, Kolb accomplished another feat by reaching multi-year agreements with guard Betnijah Laney and Kayla Thornton. Thornton's willingness to forgo free agency and sign an in-season deal speaks volumes about the positive environment that Kolb has cultivated since his arrival in 2019. Despite initially feeling out of her comfort zone when traded to New York, Thornton's decision to commit to the team demonstrates the trust and camaraderie that Kolb has fostered within the organization.

Reflecting on his role as a general manager, Kolb emphasizes the importance of maintaining long-term success. He takes pride in creating an organization that not only attracts players initially but also encourages them to stay. "To me, it's really making sure we can keep this thing successful and sustainably successful," Kolb explains. His dedication to building a cohesive and desirable team culture is evident in the Liberty's remarkable achievements under his leadership.

Kolb's remarkable accomplishments have not only earned him personal recognition but have also propelled the Liberty to new heights. Under his guidance, the team shattered its previous single-season win record, achieving an impressive 32-8 record during the regular season. This translates to a remarkable .800 win percentage, the highest in the franchise's 27 seasons. The Liberty's remarkable improvement from a .444 win percentage in 2022 to their current record is a testament to Kolb's exceptional leadership and strategic decision-making.

As a result of their successful regular season, the Liberty secured the coveted No. 2 overall seed in the upcoming WNBA playoffs. The team will commence their postseason journey against the Washington Mystics on Friday at the iconic Barclays Center. This opportunity to compete for the championship is a testament to the collective efforts of the entire organization, with Kolb at the helm.

In conclusion, Jonathan Kolb's well-deserved recognition as the 2023 WNBA Executive of the Year highlights his exceptional leadership, strategic decision-making, and ability to create a thriving and desirable team culture. His relentless pursuit of success has propelled the Liberty to new heights, resulting in a record-breaking season and a spot in the playoffs. As the team prepares for their postseason run, Kolb's impact on the organization is undeniable, and his accomplishments serve as an inspiration to his peers in the WNBA.