Duke Women’s Basketball Coach Kara Lawson Can Still Hoop — And Awes Her Players
When Kara Lawson took the reins as head coach of the Duke women’s basketball team in 2020, she was already a renowned figure in the basketball world. A standout player at the University of Tennessee, a WNBA champion, and a former ESPN analyst, Lawson brought a wealth of experience to the Blue Devils program. However, there was one more thing she brought that many might not have expected: her ability to still dominate on the basketball court.
As the head coach, Lawson has quickly earned the respect of her players not just for her coaching acumen but also for her impressive skills. At 43 years old, Lawson’s passion for basketball has not waned, and she regularly showcases her talent during practice sessions. Her players are not just listening to her instructions—they’re watching a coach who can still hoop with the best of them.
Lawson’s basketball IQ is undeniable. She knows the game inside and out, and her leadership style reflects that. But what truly sets her apart is the fact that she practices what she preaches. In a time when many former players transition into coaching and are seen as more of a teacher than a participant, Lawson is different. She’s not just standing on the sidelines, barking out orders—she’s jumping into drills, showing her players exactly what she means, and often outplaying them in the process.
This hands-on approach has had a profound impact on the Duke women’s team. Lawson’s ability to connect with her players through shared experiences on the court has forged a deeper bond within the team. Her players know that when she gives advice, it comes from a place of personal experience. Whether it’s a step-back jumper, a precise pass, or a tenacious defense, Lawson isn’t just talking about techniques—she’s demonstrating them, proving she still has the skills that made her one of the top players in the country.
“I’ve never seen a coach play like that,” says junior guard Elizabeth Balogun. “She’s always on us to improve, but when we see her out there making shots and getting steals, it motivates us to work harder. We know she’s been there, and it makes everything she says hit differently.”
Lawson’s physical prowess on the court also serves as a powerful reminder to her players about the value of hard work and discipline. As someone who has achieved success at the highest levels of basketball, her presence in practice instills a sense of aspiration in the team. Her competitive spirit is contagious, and it challenges her players to raise their own game.
Lawson’s experience in both playing and coaching also helps her understand the challenges that come with competing at the collegiate level. She’s been through the grind, and she understands the pressures that come with the sport. But perhaps more importantly, her continued ability to hoop serves as a daily inspiration to her players. It demonstrates that, even as a coach, you can still push yourself and excel—both mentally and physically.
In many ways, Kara Lawson’s playing ability is an extension of her philosophy as a coach. She leads by example, proving that true mastery of the game isn’t just about knowledge, but also about dedication, effort, and passion. For her players, that’s a lesson they’ll carry with them both on and off the court.
