McConnell Leaves Lynx

Strange news out of Minnesota last night with Lynx coach Suzie McConnell Serio resigning.
McConnell, who had no professional coaching experience when she took the job in 2003, guided the Lynx to playoff appearances in ’03 and ’04, the latter of which saw her honored as the WNBA coach of the year. Speculation surrounding the move indicates the team’s last-pace position out West, but still only four games out of the top four with 11 to play, led to her decision.
The Minneapolis Star Tribune reported on its Web site late Sunday night that McConnell was of the belief management had other plans for next season, which contributed to her stepping down.
McConnell’s departure, assistant Carolyn Jenkins will serve as interim coach the duration of this year, is somewhat surprising since the Lynx were never a true playoff contender this season. Despite drafting the dynamic Seimone Augustus first overall in April’s draft, Minnesota was probably too young of a team, although filled with talent, to challenge for a top four finish in the deep Western Conference.
If in fact McConnell did feel pressure to step down it seems like an unfair result for a coach and team capable of many years of future success. McConnell’s departure leaves the WNBA with just two full-time female coaches in the 14-team league.