BYU Secures New Leadership: Cougars Announce Successor to Former Head Coach Amber Whiting
Brigham Young University (BYU) has officially announced the hiring of a new head coach to lead its women’s basketball program following the departure of Amber Whiting. Whiting, who took over the program in 2022, faced both challenges and successes during her tenure, but the university has now turned the page with a fresh coaching choice. The new hire signals BYU’s commitment to continued excellence as the team navigates the competitive landscape of the Big 12 Conference.
A New Chapter for BYU Women’s Basketball
The selection of a new head coach is a pivotal moment for the Cougars, who have been working to establish themselves in their new conference home. BYU transitioned to the Big 12 ahead of the 2023-24 season, which presented new challenges for the program. While Whiting had moments of promise with the team, the Cougars struggled to consistently compete against some of the nation’s top programs. The change in leadership is seen as an opportunity to reset and build for the future.
BYU Athletic Director Tom Holmoe emphasized the importance of finding a coach who aligns with the university’s values while also possessing the tactical knowledge to elevate the program. “We wanted someone who not only understands the game at a high level but also embraces the culture and traditions of BYU,” Holmoe stated. “We believe this hire will provide the program with a renewed sense of direction and purpose.”
Why the Change?
Amber Whiting was hired in 2022 following the departure of longtime head coach Jeff Judkins, who led the program for over two decades. Whiting, a successful high school coach before taking the job, was tasked with leading the team into a new era. However, coaching at the collegiate level—especially in a conference as competitive as the Big 12—proved to be a significant challenge.
While she brought enthusiasm and a strong player development mindset, the Cougars faced difficulties in adjusting to the higher level of competition. BYU finished with a losing record in conference play, leading to speculation about whether a coaching change was necessary to help the team compete at the highest level. The university ultimately decided to move in a different direction, hoping a fresh approach will reinvigorate the program.
What to Expect from the New Coach
The new head coach, whose identity was revealed in the official announcement, brings a wealth of experience and a clear vision for the program. Whether the hire comes from within the current coaching staff, a seasoned NCAA coach, or an up-and-coming name in the basketball world, expectations will be high.
The new coach will inherit a program with a strong recruiting foundation, passionate fan support, and the resources needed to succeed. Key tasks will include improving the team’s competitiveness in the Big 12, developing current players, and strengthening recruiting efforts to attract top talent.
Looking Ahead
BYU fans are eager to see how the new coach will shape the team’s future. With the Big 12 being one of the toughest conferences in college basketball, the Cougars will need strong leadership to rise in the rankings. This coaching change represents an opportunity for a fresh start and a chance to build a competitive program for years to come.
