Bill Laimbeer appointed Liberty's coach/GM

Oct 25, 2012 - 8:11 PM New York, NY (Sports Network) - The New York Liberty named Bill Laimbeer the team's new head coach and general manager on Thursday.

Laimbeer, a former WNBA Coach of the Year, replaces John Whisenant, who compiled a 34-34 record in his two seasons guiding the Liberty.

"We're excited to have Bill Laimbeer join the New York Liberty as our general manager and head coach. He has brought his winning pedigree and passion to the WNBA and I believe he will play a large role in bringing a championship to the Liberty," said Allan Houston, the New York Knicks' assistant GM, who also oversees Liberty basketball operations. "We appreciate coach Whisenant's dedication to our team and the organization, and wish him well in the future."

Laimbeer brings to the Liberty of wealth of success in the league. From 2002-09, he served as general manager and head coach of the Detroit Shock -- the franchise is now based in Tulsa -- and captured WNBA titles in 2003, 2006 and 2008. The Shock posted a 137-93 record during his tenure.

A 14-year NBA veteran, Laimbeer was a member of the Detroit Pistons teams that won back-to-back championships in 1989 and 1990.