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The 2025 NCAA Basketball Tournaments are a testament to the excellence in collegiate coaching. This year, both the men's and women's tournaments feature a remarkable representation of Black head coaches, highlighting progress and the celebration of leadership in the sport.
Representation in the 2025 Tournaments
- Women's Tournament: Out of 68 teams, 16 are led by Black head coaches, accounting for approximately 23.5% of the field.
- Men's Tournament: Similarly, 15 teams are under the guidance of Black head coaches, representing about 22% of the participants.
Notable
Dawn Staley (Defending Champion South Carolina): Under her leadership, South Carolina has become a powerhouse, aiming to defend their national title this year.
- Dawn Staley – University of South Carolina
- Niele Ivey – University of Notre Dame
- Kara Lawson – Duke University
- Kenny Brooks – University of Kentucky
- Yolett McPhee-McCuin – University of Mississippi (Ole Miss)
- Charmin Smith – University of California, Berkeley
- Carrie Moore – Harvard University
- Stacie Terry-Hutson – San Diego State University
- Vanessa Blair-Lewis – George Mason University
- Chelsea Lyles – Florida Gulf Coast University
- Leonard Bishop – Stephen F. Austin State University
- Larry Vickers – Norfolk State University
- Trina Patterson – University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG)
- Destinee Rogers – Arkansas State University
- Carlos Funchess – Southern University
- Erin Dickerson Davis – College of William & Mary
The presence of these accomplished coaches is a cause for celebration. Their visibility and leadership on a national scale, while leading nationally relevant teams not only drives their teams to success but also inspires future generations. There are a substantial amount of black coaches in the ranks of the most highly respected schools in the nation, from Ivy League, and the defending champions.
Any debate bout merit or DEI should be put to rest when there's only one way to be a successful coach, and that's winning.
As fans, supporting these coaches and their teams enriches the tournament experience and promotes diversity in sports.
The 2025 NCAA Women's Basketball Tournament shines a spotlight on the impressive contributions of Black head coaches. Their dedication and achievements are integral to the fabric of college basketball, making this year's March Madness both exciting and inspiring. With this list you can easily see who to root for and check out the coaches live during the tournament.
