Newbauer, Whitt, welcome home! That was the message ringing through Norman this week, as the Oklahoma Sooners officially welcomed two familiar faces back to campus: former Florida head coach Cam Newbauer and former Tulsa head coach Angie Nelp, formerly Angie Whitt during her playing days in Norman. For Sooner fans, the news felt less like a coaching move and more like a family reunion — the kind of homecoming that speaks to both the history and future of Oklahoma women’s basketball.
Newbauer returns to Oklahoma in a pivotal support role after spending four seasons as the head coach of the Florida Gators from 2017 to 2021. While his time in Gainesville had its share of challenges, including stepping down in 2021 to prioritize his mental and emotional well-being, Newbauer’s coaching acumen and familiarity with the Big 12 landscape are unquestionable. He served as an assistant coach under Jeff Walz at Louisville and had previous stops at Georgia and Siena, but the connection to Oklahoma runs deeper than just coaching resumes. This is a return to the environment that helped shape Newbauer’s basketball journey, and it offers a unique opportunity for him to reignite his passion in a place that feels like home.
For Whitt — now known to many as Angie Nelp — the return to Norman is not just professional, it’s deeply personal. A standout player for the Sooners from 1998 to 2002 under legendary head coach Sherri Coale, Nelp etched her name into Oklahoma basketball lore during a golden era. She was known for her relentless work ethic, court vision, and leadership. As a player, she helped the Sooners rise to national prominence, and now she brings that same fire and dedication to the coaching staff.
Her coaching career since leaving OU has been equally impressive. Most recently, she served as head coach at Tulsa, where she led the Golden Hurricane through a rebuilding process with a focus on culture, accountability, and competitiveness. Before that, she had successful stints as an assistant coach at Arizona State, Rice, and Mercer. Each stop along the way showcased her ability to connect with players, build relationships, and instill a winning mentality.
Now, both Newbauer and Whitt return to a program in transition — a team aiming to reclaim its place among the nation’s elite under the leadership of head coach Jennie Baranczyk. The Sooners have been on the rise in recent seasons, and the addition of two seasoned and passionate coaches with deep ties to the program signals an even stronger commitment to building something special.
Baranczyk, who took the reins at Oklahoma in 2021, has already made significant strides in re-establishing the Sooners’ identity. With high-octane offense, gritty defense, and a culture that prioritizes player development on and off the court, she has breathed new life into the program. The hires of Newbauer and Whitt only amplify that vision.
The return of Whitt carries particular emotional weight for Sooner fans who remember her playing days. She was never the most physically imposing player on the court, but she had an unshakable belief in herself and her teammates. That competitive spirit became a cornerstone of her coaching philosophy. She believes in hard-nosed basketball, team-first mentalities, and accountability — lessons she learned firsthand at Oklahoma and has carried with her throughout her coaching career.
For Newbauer, this return is an opportunity for redemption and renewal. He left Florida amid personal struggles that required him to step back and reassess his path. In doing so, he demonstrated courage and vulnerability, qualities that are increasingly important in today’s coaching landscape. Now, with a renewed sense of purpose, he brings decades of basketball insight and a deep understanding of the pressures that come with high-level competition.
Both Newbauer and Whitt understand the power of Oklahoma’s fan base, its tradition, and the unique pride that comes with wearing the Crimson and Cream. This isn’t just a job for them — it’s a calling. They’ve been part of the fabric of Sooner basketball before, and they return not as outsiders but as stewards of a tradition they helped build.
Their presence also reinforces the idea that Oklahoma is a destination job — not just for players, but for coaches. When individuals with opportunities elsewhere choose to come home, it speaks volumes about the culture being built within the program. Baranczyk has emphasized relationships and connection since her arrival, and the additions of Newbauer and Whitt perfectly align with that mission.
Players will benefit tremendously from their combined experience. Whitt has been a mentor to countless young women, teaching not only the X’s and O’s but also life skills that transcend the court. Newbauer has been part of high-level NCAA tournament teams and knows what it takes to build competitive, sustainable success. Together, they provide a powerful combination of emotional intelligence, basketball IQ, and leadership.
There’s also the recruiting angle to consider. Having two coaches on staff who are not only experienced but also connected to Oklahoma’s history gives the Sooners a unique edge. Recruits and their families often want to know they’re joining a program that values loyalty, continuity, and a legacy of excellence. Few things communicate that more effectively than bringing back two former Sooners who know exactly what it means to represent the university.
The ripple effects of their returns are already being felt within the Sooner community. Former players, boosters, and fans have flooded social media with congratulations and expressions of excitement. There’s a shared belief that the addition of Newbauer and Whitt represents not only a tactical advantage but a spiritual boost to a program that continues to aim high.
In many ways, this homecoming is about more than basketball. It’s about resilience, second chances, and the enduring power of belonging. Both coaches have taken different paths to get back to Norman, each marked by triumphs and trials. Their journeys reflect the complexities of life in college athletics — the sacrifices, the pressure, the moments of doubt, and ultimately, the joy of finding your way back to where it all began.
This is the essence of college sports at its best. It’s not just about wins and losses. It’s about relationships, growth, and the ability to write new chapters in familiar places. With Newbauer and Whitt back in the fold, the Sooners have not only strengthened their coaching staff — they’ve doubled down on their commitment to legacy, loyalty, and love of the game.
Looking ahead, the 2025-26 season promises to be a fascinating one for Oklahoma women’s basketball. With a talented roster, a passionate coaching staff, and a renewed sense of purpose, expectations will be high. But that’s exactly how the Sooners like it. High expectations are part of the deal in Norman, and with these two returning home, there’s a sense that something special is about to unfold.
So welcome home, Cam Newbauer and Angie Whitt. You’ve been missed. And now that you’re back, Sooner Nation is ready to chase greatness with you — together, as one family.