Kellie Harper Returns to the SEC: Former Lady Vol Champion Named Missouri Women’s Basketball Head Coach
Kellie Harper, a distinguished figure in women’s college basketball, has been appointed as the head coach for the Missouri Tigers women’s basketball team. This move marks a significant return to the Southeastern Conference (SEC) for Harper, who previously led the Tennessee Lady Volunteers both as a player and coach. Her extensive experience and proven track record are anticipated to bring renewed energy and success to the Missouri program.
A Storied Playing Career
Born in Sparta, Tennessee, Harper’s basketball journey began under the guidance of her father, Kenneth Jolly, at White County High School. Her exceptional talent led her to the University of Tennessee, where she played as a point guard under the legendary coach Pat Summitt from 1995 to 1999. During her tenure, Harper was instrumental in securing three consecutive NCAA National Championships in 1996, 1997, and 1998. Notably, she contributed to the Lady Vols’ perfect 39-0 season in 1997-98, averaging 7.6 points and 3.8 assists per game. Her performance in the 1998 national championship game, where she scored a career-high 20 points and was named to the All-Final Four Team, remains a highlight of her illustrious playing career. University of Missouri Athletics+1Missouri State+1Rock M Nation+2ESPN.com+2University of Missouri Athletics+2Missouri State+1University of Missouri Athletics+1
Transition to Coaching
Following a brief stint in the WNBA with the Cleveland Rockers, Harper transitioned to coaching. She began as an assistant coach at Auburn University and later at Chattanooga, where she contributed to three consecutive Southern Conference championships and NCAA Tournament appearances. Her first head coaching role was at Western Carolina University in 2004. Over five seasons, Harper led the Catamounts to two Southern Conference Tournament titles and NCAA Tournament berths, earning the Southern Conference Coach of the Year award in 2007. ESPN.com+3University of Missouri Athletics+3Missouri State+3SBNation.com+2Missouri State+2University of Missouri Athletics+2
In 2009, Harper took the helm at North Carolina State University, succeeding the late Kay Yow. During her four-year tenure, she guided the Wolfpack to three postseason appearances, including the 2010 NCAA Tournament. Her leadership was marked by notable victories over top-25 teams and a commitment to maintaining the program’s competitive edge. University of Missouri AthleticsMissouri State
Success at Missouri State
Harper’s connection to Missouri began in 2013 when she was appointed head coach at Missouri State University. Over six seasons, she revitalized the Lady Bears program, leading them to two NCAA Tournament appearances. The pinnacle of her tenure was the 2018-19 season, culminating in a Missouri Valley Conference Tournament championship and a remarkable run to the NCAA Sweet 16. Her achievements earned her the Missouri Valley Coach of the Year award and the prestigious Kay Yow Coach of the Year honor in 2019. SBNation.com+2University of Missouri Athletics+2Missouri State+2
Return to Tennessee
In 2019, Harper returned to her alma mater as the head coach of the Tennessee Lady Volunteers. Over five seasons, she compiled a 108-52 record, including two consecutive Sweet 16 appearances in 2022 and 2023. Her tenure was marked by the development of several players who progressed to the WNBA, underscoring her ability to recruit and nurture top talent. Despite these successes, Harper was dismissed following the 2023-24 season after a 20-13 record and a second-round NCAA Tournament exit. ESPN.com
New Chapter at Missouri
Harper’s appointment as the head coach of Missouri’s women’s basketball team was announced on March 18, 2025. She becomes the fifth coach in the program’s history, bringing with her a career record of 393-260 over 20 seasons. Her hiring is part of Missouri’s broader efforts to rejuvenate its women’s basketball program, which has struggled in recent years, missing the NCAA Tournament for six consecutive seasons. Rock M Nation+1SBNation.com+1ESPN.com+2University of Missouri Athletics+2SBNation.com+2SBNation.com
Missouri Athletic Director Laird Veatch expressed confidence in Harper’s ability to lead the program to new heights, citing her championship pedigree and deep ties to the SEC and the state of Missouri. Harper herself conveyed enthusiasm about returning to Missouri, emphasizing the state’s special place in her heart and her commitment to building strong relationships within the community and achieving success on the court. Rock M Nation+2ESPN.com+2Rock M Nation+2
Challenges and Opportunities Ahead
Harper’s arrival at Missouri coincides with a period of transition for the team. The departure of players such as Tilda Sjökvist and Lucija Milkovic through the transfer portal presents both challenges and opportunities. Harper will be tasked with rebuilding the roster, leveraging her recruiting acumen to attract and develop new talent. Her proven track record in program revitalization positions her well to navigate this period of change. SBNation.comRock M Nation
Kellie Harper’s return to the SEC as the head coach of Missouri’s women’s basketball team heralds a new era for the program. Her extensive experience, deep-rooted connections to the conference, and history of success as both a player and coach provide a solid foundation for future achievements. As she embarks on this new chapter, the Missouri community and fans alike eagerly anticipate the revitalization and success that her leadership promises to bring.