Nell Fortner, a prominent figure in women’s basketball, has announced her immediate retirement as the head coach of Georgia Tech’s women’s basketball team after an impressive six-year tenure. Fortner, whose coaching career has spanned over 30 years, leaves behind a legacy filled with remarkable achievements, including leading the team to three NCAA tournament appearances and earning several prestigious coaching awards.
A Stellar Coaching Record
During her time at Georgia Tech, Fortner compiled a solid record of 110 wins and 75 losses, showcasing her ability to lead and develop young talent in the sport. Her tenure was marked not only by success on the court but also by her dedication to her players and commitment to building a strong team culture. Under her guidance, the Yellow Jackets achieved their best season in 2024 with an overall record of 22-11 and a competitive 9-9 in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).
Achievements and Honors
Fortner’s coaching talents did not go unnoticed. She was honored with Coach of the Year awards across multiple conferences, including the Big Ten in 1997, the Southeastern Conference (SEC) in 2009, and the ACC in 2021. These awards reflect her ability to elevate her team’s performance and resonate with her dedication to the game.
Involvement Beyond College Basketball
Before taking the helm at Georgia Tech, Fortner made her mark in the WNBA, coaching the Indiana Fever from 2001 to 2003. She also served as an assistant coach for Team USA, leading the team to an Olympic gold medal in 2000. These experiences contributed greatly to her comprehensive understanding of both the college and professional levels of women’s basketball.
Looking Ahead
With Fortner stepping down, Georgia Tech will begin its search for a new head coach to lead the women’s basketball program into the future. In the meantime, assistant coach LaSondra Barrett will take over as the interim head coach, ensuring continuity and support for the players during this transition period. Fortner’s decision to retire comes after a career filled with significant milestones, and she plans to take some time to reflect on her next steps in life.
A Grateful Community
The news of Nell Fortner’s retirement is felt deeply within the Georgia Tech community. Players, fans, and fellow coaches have expressed their gratitude for her devotion to the program. Many have shared stories of how she impacted their lives, both on and off the basketball court, inspiring a new generation of players to pursue their dreams with passion.
Fortner’s Legacy
As a pioneering coach and mentor, Nell Fortner’s influence extended beyond wins and losses. She has instilled values of hard work, resilience, and team spirit in her players that will last a lifetime. While her departure marks the end of an era for the Yellow Jackets, her legacy will undoubtedly continue to inspire future players and coaches.
| Year | Major Achievement |
|---|---|
| 1997 | Coach of the Year – Big Ten |
| 2009 | Coach of the Year – SEC |
| 2021 | Coach of the Year – ACC |
| 2000 | Gold Medal – Team USA Olympics |
