Kellie Harper Takes Charge as Mizzou Women's Basketball Coach

Kellie Harper has been appointed as the new head coach of the Missouri women's basketball team, aiming to revitalize a program that has not seen a winning record in the SEC for six years and has not made the NCAA Tournament since 2018-19. Athletic Director Laird Veatch highlighted Harper's impressive coaching history, which includes leading multiple programs to NCAA tournament appearances and a strong commitment to player development. Harper expressed her enthusiasm for returning to coaching after a year with the SEC Network, emphasizing her desire to work closely with players to build a competitive team quickly. With a five-year contract worth $4.5 million, expectations are high for Harper to leverage the transfer portal and attract talent to turn the program around swiftly. Missouri leadership is optimistic about the potential for immediate improvement under Harper, who is seen as a key figure in capitalizing on the growing excitement surrounding women's basketball. The program is poised for a significant shift as Harper embarks on this new chapter.