In a significant development for women’s college basketball, Kellie Harper, former head coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers, has been appointed as the new head coach of the Texas Longhorns women’s basketball team. This announcement comes after Harper’s recent tenure at the University of Missouri, where she served as head coach.
Harper’s coaching career spans over two decades, during which she has led multiple programs to success. At Tennessee, she guided the Lady Vols to four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances, including back-to-back Sweet 16 runs in 2022 and 2023. Her leadership was instrumental in developing top-tier talent, with four of her players being selected in the first round of the WNBA Draft in consecutive years—a feat matched only by coaching legends Geno Auriemma and Muffet McGraw.
Before her stint at Tennessee, Harper held head coaching positions at Western Carolina, NC State, and Missouri State, demonstrating a consistent ability to elevate programs and foster competitive teams. Her overall head coaching record stands at an impressive 393-260, with nine NCAA Tournament appearances and four conference tournament titles.
Harper’s appointment at Texas marks a new chapter for the Longhorns, who have been seeking to build upon their recent successes in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). The Longhorns finished the 2024–25 season with a 35–4 record, clinching the SEC regular-season co-championship and making a Final Four appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
In a statement, Harper expressed her enthusiasm for joining the Texas program: “I’m honored to take the helm of the Longhorns women’s basketball team. Texas has a rich history and a passionate fan base, and I’m excited to contribute to its legacy. I look forward to working with the talented student-athletes and building upon the program’s strong foundation.”
Athletic Director Chris Del Conte praised Harper’s appointment, stating, “Kellie brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success. Her leadership and commitment to excellence align perfectly with our vision for Texas women’s basketball. We are thrilled to welcome her to the Longhorn family.”
As Harper transitions into her role at Texas, expectations are high for continued success and further advancement in the NCAA Tournament. Her extensive experience and demonstrated ability to develop talent position her well to lead the Longhorns into a promising future.
