NORFOLK, Va. -- Old Dominion University women's basketball head coach Karen Barefoot has accepted the head coach position at UNC Wilmington, as announced by school officials on Wednesday.
“I want to thank President Broderick and Wood Selig for an incredible experience at Old Dominion,” said Barefoot. “I think we have accomplished some great things, both on and off the court, and I credit the student-athletes, the fan support, the administration and everyone who has been a part of Lady Monarch basketball. I'm truly going to miss Monarch Nation and Old Dominion will always have a special place in my heart.”
Barefoot has been the head coach of the Lady Monarchs for the past six seasons, compiling a 103-93 record during her tenure. The Newport News native guided ODU to winning seasons in four of the six years and also helped the Lady Monarchs reach the Conference USA Championship game during the 2015-16 season.
“We wish Karen well in her new endeavors at UNCW,” said ODU Athletic Director Wood Selig. “We are grateful for all the wonderful accomplishments our Lady Monarchs achieved under Karen's leadership. Our academic profile has increased dramatically while our community visibility and engagement has been exemplary. There has not been a more strident ambassador for ODU and ODU athletics than Karen Barefoot. We will miss her energy and enthusiasm and know she will do well at UNCW.”
This past season, Old Dominion went 17-14 overall, including an 11-7 mark in Conference USA play, which tied for the most conference wins for ODU during the C-USA era. At the conclusion of the season, Jennie Simms was named the C-USA Player of the Year and an AP All-American, while also being selected in the WNBA Draft.