Flames ignite Garlepp's head coaching career

• 2025-26 WNBL Team Lists and Roster Tracker
• Latest News: Read more about the WNBL here.
• Latest WNBL Scores and Schedule here

Two-time WNBL champion Renae Garlepp has been anointed as the new leader to take the Sydney Flames forward after signing a two-year deal as the club's head coach.

Garlepp stepped up from lead assistant to interim head coach after the departure of Guy Molloy in November last year and has helped the injury-riddled Flames to several key wins, including over the defending champions Bendigo Spirit in early January.

It's a significant move from Sydney's ownership group, Hoops Capital, with Garlepp considered to be one of the frontrunners for expansion franchises if she wasn't elevated by the Flames.

“This is a statement of intent from us. We are investing in Renae because we believe she is the right leader to build something powerful and enduring at the Sydney Flames," Hoops Capital CEO, Mark Thompson, said.

“She is driven, she is uncompromising on standards, and she is deeply connected to the NSW basketball pathway. And this is why it is not a short-term appointment. We are backing Renae’s vision for the future of this Club.”

Garlepp has enjoyed a successful transition into coaching after a decorated 12-year WNBL career with the AIS, Townsville Fire, Adelaide Lightning, Logan Thunder, Bendigo Spirit and Sydney Flames.

The talented and dynamic guard won a championship in Adelaide, where she was the 2008 Grand Final MVP, before adding another one to her resume with the Spirit. She was also the league's Rookie of the Year in 2005.

Since stepping away from playing, Garlepp has led the Norths Bears to an NBL1 East title, coached New South Wales teams to medals at junior national championships and coached the Australian Gems to a silver medal at the FIBA Under-19 World Cup last year, where she was recognised as the Coach of the Tournament.

"Growing up in NSW, this state and this club played a huge role in shaping who I am," Garlepp said in the Flames media release.

"To lead the team that represents all of New South Wales is something I’m proud and excited to do. For me, this is about building a program that’s tough, driven, and a proud reflection of the state."

"Looking forward to recruiting a team where players are challenged, supported, and thrive on and off the court.”

Garlepp's signing takes one key coach off the board as the Tasmania Jewels look to sign their inaugural coach for the 2026-27 WNBL season.