NEWS FLASH: Three-time champion and former Lady Vol Kellie Harper to Take on New SEC Role a former standout player under the renowned Pat Summitt and a distinguished alumna of the University of Tennessee, is scheduled to return to the SEC as the head coach of the Missouri women’s basketball program…

NEWS FLASH: Three-time champion and former Lady Vol Kellie Harper to Take on New SEC Role a former standout player under the renowned Pat Summitt and a distinguished alumna of the University of Tennessee, is scheduled to return to the SEC as the head coach of the Missouri women’s basketball program…

 

Kellie Harper, a former University of Tennessee standout and three-time national champion under the legendary Pat Summitt, has been named the new head coach of the Missouri Tigers women’s basketball team. The announcement was made on March 18, 2025, marking a significant milestone in Harper’s illustrious career.

 

A Storied Playing Career

 

Harper’s journey to coaching began on the hardwood at Tennessee, where she played from 1995 to 1999. As a point guard, she was instrumental in leading the Lady Vols to three consecutive NCAA championships from 1996 to 1998. In the 1998 national title game, Harper set an NCAA championship game record with 11 assists and was named to the All-Final Four Team. She finished her college career with 894 points and 452 assists, ranking her among Tennessee’s all-time leaders in both categories. ([Kellie Harper – Head Coach – Staff Directory – University of Missouri Athletics]

A Proven Coaching Record

 

Following her playing career, Harper transitioned into coaching, bringing her wealth of experience and leadership to various programs. She served as head coach at Western Carolina, NC State, Missouri State, and most recently, Tennessee. Over 20 seasons as a Division I head coach, Harper compiled a 393-260 record, leading her teams to nine NCAA Tournament appearances and four conference tournament championships. At Tennessee, she guided the Lady Vols to the NCAA Tournament in each of her four seasons, including back-to-back Sweet 16 appearances in 2022 and 2023. ([Kellie Harper – Women’s Basketball Coach – University of Missouri Athletics]

A Strategic Hire for Missouri

 

Harper’s hiring comes at a pivotal time for the Missouri women’s basketball program, which has faced challenges in recent seasons. The Tigers have missed the NCAA Tournament for six consecutive years, and the outgoing coach, Robin Pingeton, had a mixed record in SEC play. Missouri Athletic Director Laird Veatch expressed confidence in Harper’s ability to revitalize the program, citing her proven track record and deep ties to the Southeastern Conference. “Kellie is a proven winner and dynamic leader who understands the ‘Will to Win’ necessary to succeed at the sport’s highest level,” Veatch said. ([This SEC program just hired its next women’s basketball coach who has a history in the league]

Looking Ahead

 

As Harper takes the helm at Missouri, she faces the challenge of rebuilding the Tigers’ roster. The team has experienced significant turnover, with several players entering the transfer portal and others leaving the program. However, Harper has already made strides in reshaping the roster, bringing in key transfers to bolster the team’s depth and talent. She emphasized the importance of building strong relationships with players and fostering a culture of excellence both on and off the court.

With her extensive experience, championship pedigree, and commitment to player development, Kellie Harper is poised to lead Missouri women’s basketball into a new era of success.