COUGAR ROYALTY RETURNS: Legendary BYU Star Haley Steed Joins Women’s Basketball Coaching Staff in Full-Circle Moment for the Program
In a moment filled with pride, nostalgia, and renewed ambition, BYU women’s basketball is bringing home one of its greatest legends. Former Cougar standout and WNBA draftee Haley Steed has officially joined the coaching staff, marking a powerful homecoming for the player once considered the heart and soul of BYU basketball in the early 2010s.
The announcement came during a packed press conference at the Marriott Center, where head coach Amber Whiting called Steed’s hiring “a monumental moment for this program—not just because of what she’s done, but because of who she is.” Steed, who still ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in assists, steals, and minutes played, returns to Provo with more than just accolades—she brings a passion for leadership and development that shaped her playing career and now defines her coaching philosophy.
“I’m home,” Steed said, visibly emotional as she addressed fans and former teammates in attendance. “This university molded me into the woman I am today. To now have the opportunity to mentor the next generation of Cougars, to give back to a program that gave me everything—it’s a dream come true.”
Steed’s path back to BYU was forged through years of hard work. After retiring from professional basketball, she quickly established herself as one of the rising minds in the coaching world. Most recently, she served as associate head coach at a top mid-major program, where her offensive schemes and player development prowess helped lead the team to back-to-back NCAA tournament appearances. Now, she brings that same fire to a BYU team looking to rise in the ever-competitive Big 12 Conference.
Known during her playing days for her uncanny court vision, relentless defense, and emotional grit, Steed is expected to work closely with BYU’s guards and oversee team leadership development. But her impact won’t stop on the court. A practicing member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a vocal advocate for academic excellence, Steed also brings deep alignment with the school’s values and mission.
“She was a leader on the floor, and she’ll be a leader on the bench,” Whiting added. “Haley doesn’t just coach the game—she teaches young women how to lead, how to fight, and how to carry themselves with purpose.”
Fan reaction has been electric. Within minutes of the announcement, “Haley’s Home” trended across BYU social media channels, and former Cougar athletes, including men’s basketball alum Jimmer Fredette, publicly praised the move. “Can’t think of a better hire,” Fredette posted. “Haley’s a winner. She always has been.”
Steed will officially begin her duties this summer and will be instrumental in shaping the Cougars’ 2025 recruiting class. Early whispers suggest that her name alone is already generating interest among top West Coast talent.
As BYU continues to elevate its profile on the national stage, the return of a foundational player like Haley Steed signals more than a staffing change—it signals a cultural revival. Cougar royalty has returned, and with her, the echoes of greatness are once again stirring in Provo.
