In a significant shift for Mizzou Women’s Basketball, longtime coach Robin Pingeton has stepped down after 15 impressive years, sparking a crucial search for her replacement. Athletic Director Laird Veatch is leading this important hunt, emphasizing the need for a new coach who will not only continue the team’s competitive spirit but also inspire young athletes throughout the program.
Welp, it’s official.
After dedicating over a decade and a half to the Mizzou Tigers, Robin Pingeton has officially left her position as head coach of the women’s basketball team. During her time with the team, Pingeton built a strong foundation, leading the Tigers to numerous wins and several postseason appearances. Her departure has left fans and players alike wondering what the future holds for Mizzou Women’s Basketball.
Slam Dunk:
As the search begins, several impressive candidates have emerged. Among them is Molly Miller, the current head coach at Grand Canyon University. With a strong track record at both Drury and GCU, Miller is seen as a top option. Another leading candidate is Kellie Harper, who has experience coaching at the SEC-level and previously led the University of Tennessee’s women’s basketball team. These candidates, along with others, show promise in continuing to elevate the program.
Contested Midrange:
- Lindy La Rocque, currently at UNLV, has distinguished herself with strong credentials and success on her resume, making her a solid contender.
- Carly Thibault-DuDonis led Fairfield to a remarkable 31-win season and has significant NCAA Tournament experience, which Mizzou could greatly benefit from.
- Charmin Smith, fresh off improving the California team’s performance, also has Missouri roots that could make her a great fit.
Half Court Heave:
Some candidates may need a bit more convincing, but they bring their own set of unique strengths. For example, Aaron Roussell is known for his excellent coaching at Richmond, and Amy Eagan, who has made a name for herself at Lindenwood, brings a successful background and even hosts her own podcast. These profiles indicate the variety of approaches that Mizzou could consider in this hiring process.
When to expect a decision
The goal is to have a new head coach in place by mid-April, just in time for the upcoming recruiting season. This timeline is critical for Mizzou Athletics, which hopes to continue building on the successes of the women’s basketball program. Already, discussions and interviews are underway, demonstrating the urgency and importance of this decision for the future of women’s sports at Mizzou.
| Candidate Name | Current Position | Previous Achievements |
|---|---|---|
| Molly Miller | Head Coach, GCU | Success at Drury, NCAA appearances |
| Kellie Harper | Former Coach, Tennessee | SEC experience, NCAA experience |
| Lindy La Rocque | Head Coach, UNLV | Strong credentials, improved team |
| Carly Thibault-DuDonis | Head Coach, Fairfield | 31-win season, NCAA experience |
| Charmin Smith | Head Coach, Cal | Improved performance, Missouri roots |
