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Mystics General Manager and Head Coach Mike Thibault announced that Eric Thibault was promoted to Associate Head Coach. Previously, Eric was an assistant coach for Washington from 2013 until now.
Thibault has helped lead the team to five playoff appearances including a trip to the 2018 WNBA Finals, a franchise first. Mike Thibault said the following in their press release:
“Eric’s contributions to the Mystics have had a huge impact in every part of our progress over the past six years, from player development to practice and game planning, college scouting, salary cap management, and technology advancements,” Coach Thibault said. “He is certainly ready to be a head coach and we are thrilled that he has decided to be a big part of the Mystics organization going forward.”
In addition, Eric said the following:
“I’m very grateful to Ted, Sheila, and Coach T for showing faith in me, and for allowing me to continue as part of our Mystics family,” said Eric. “I get to work every day with an extraordinary group of players and staff. I look forward to the 2019 season and the challenge of bringing home the Mystics’ first WNBA Championship.”
Eric’s focus was into player development especially the guards such as Natasha Cloud and Ariel Atkins. Cloud was considered for the WNBA’s 2018 Most Improved Player of the Year and Atkins made the 2018 All-Rookie Team and All-Defensive Second Team.
The Dallas Wings also interviewed Eric for their head coach opening according to Howard Megdal of High Post Hoops. Though he wasn’t selected, it is safe to say he is glad to still be coaching alongside his dad for the Mystics. He is definitely on his way to being a head coach sooner rather than later.