The University of Missouri has officially announced the hiring of Kellie Harper as the new head coach for its women's basketball program, marking a hopeful new chapter for the Tigers. The announcement was made on March 18, 2025, by Mizzou Athletic Director Laird Veatch, who expressed enthusiasm about the decision to bring Harper on board.
"We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Kellie Harper and her family to Mizzou," said Veatch in a press release. He emphasized Harper's proven track record, stating, "Kellie is a proven winner and dynamic leader who understands the ‘Will to Win’ necessary to succeed at the sport’s highest level." This sentiment echoes the anticipation surrounding Harper’s return to Missouri, particularly given her extensive experience in the field.
With 20 years of head coaching experience, Kellie Harper is no stranger to success on the court. Harper's most recent position was at the University of Tennessee, where she led the Lady Vols to a commendable 108-52 record from 2019 to 2024. Under her leadership, the team made four NCAA Tournament appearances and reached the Sweet 16 twice, showcasing her ability to develop competitive teams. Prior to her tenure at Tennessee, Harper coached at Western Carolina, North Carolina State, and Missouri State, accumulating an overall record of 393-260 and participating in nine NCAA tournaments.
Reflecting on her appointment, Harper stated, "I am incredibly honored to be the next head coach at Mizzou. Missouri is a special place, and I know firsthand the passion and pride that surrounds this program." Her commitment to building relationships within the community and among student-athletes signals her dedication to the program's future.
Additionally, Harper's recruiting efforts have proven fruitful. She produced WNBA first-round picks in four consecutive years during her time at Tennessee, including notable names such as Rennia Davis and Rickea Jackson. In 2021, her recruiting class was ranked 15th nationally, and she followed it up with the sixth-best transfer class in 2023. This ability to attract top talent will be key in advancing the Mizzou women's basketball program.
Harper also has a storied history as a player, having been a standout point guard at Tennessee from 1995 to 1999. She played under legendary coach Pat Summitt and contributed significantly to the program's success during her time, winning three consecutive national championships from 1996 to 1998. She scored 894 points and notched 452 assists, ranking among the top 10 in several statistical categories in Lady Vols' history.
As the Tigers look to the future, the hiring of Harper is seen as a vital step in rekindling the competitive spirit and success of the program, especially after periods of inconsistent performance. Todd Graves, chair of the University of Missouri Board of Curators, reiterated the confidence in Harper’s leadership, stating, "We believe Kellie Harper is the exact leader we need to take Mizzou women’s basketball to new heights." This optimistic view is shared by many who have followed the program's trajectory in recent years.
Former Missouri guard Sophie Cunningham, the program's all-time leading scorer, expressed her excitement about the new hire, stating, "I am thrilled for the hiring of Kellie Harper as Mizzou’s next women’s basketball coach. Kellie and her husband, Jon, have experienced winning both in Missouri and in the SEC. I have so much respect for Coach Harper, and I can’t wait to support her and our Tigers however I can." Cunningham's remarks highlight the potential camaraderie and support that could come from former players as the program enters this new phase.
As Missouri prepares for the new season, attention will turn to how Harper will lead the team and build a competitive edge in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). With her history of success and a clear vision for development, there is a shared hope that Harper can guide Mizzou women’s basketball back to prominence.
While the specifics of her contract and the financial commitments involved in this hiring have yet to be disclosed, there is an air of excitement around the program. Fans and stakeholders alike are eager to see the strategies Harper will implement and the direction she will take the team in upcoming seasons.
It seems the program’s future could once again be bright as they welcome back one of their own—a coach with both local ties and a strong background in achieving success. If anyone is poised to elevate Mizzou women’s basketball, it is Kellie Harper, and all eyes will be on her journey as the new head coach.
