NCAA women’s basketball boasts not only exceptional players but also top-tier coaching talent. The coaching prowess in women’s college basketball is reflected in the salaries these coaches command, with some earning substantial sums. From seasoned Hall of Famers to rising stars, the coaching landscape in women’s hoops is as competitive as the game itself. Let’s delve into the list of the top 10 highest-paid women’s college basketball coaches and explore their salaries and achievements.
Highest Paid Women’s College Basketball Coaches of 2024
The Top 10 Highest Paid Women’s College Basketball Coaches of 2024 represent the pinnacle of coaching excellence in NCAA women’s basketball. With salaries reflecting their invaluable contributions to the sport, these coaches lead their teams with precision, strategy, and unwavering dedication. From seasoned veterans to rising stars, each coach on the list commands a significant salary, underscoring the prestige and competitiveness of women’s college basketball coaching. As they continue to guide their teams to success on the court, the impact of these top-paid coaches extends far beyond the game, shaping the future of women’s basketball at the collegiate level.
1. Kim Mulkey – LSU
At the summit of the list is Kim Mulkey, the head coach of LSU, earning a staggering $3.26 million during the 2023-24 season. Mulkey’s coaching acumen and leadership have propelled LSU to great heights, making her the highest-paid coach in women’s college basketball.
2. Geno Auriemma – UConn
Sharing the second spot is Geno Auriemma, the legendary coach of UConn Huskies, and Dawn Staley, the esteemed head coach of South Carolina Gamecocks. Both coaches command a salary of $3.1 million, reflecting their invaluable contributions to the sport.
4. Vic Schaefer – Texas
Vic Schaefer, at the helm of the Texas Longhorns, secures the fourth spot with a salary of $2.3 million. Schaefer’s strategic prowess and coaching finesse have positioned Texas as a formidable force in women’s college basketball.
5. Brenda Frese – Maryland
Brenda Frese, the head coach of Maryland Terrapins, occupies the fifth spot with a salary of $1.88 million. Frese’s coaching tenure is marked by remarkable achievements and consistent success on the court.
6. Jeff Walz – Louisville
Jeff Walz, leading the Louisville Cardinals, commands a salary of $1.75 million, securing the sixth spot on the list. Walz’s coaching philosophy and dedication to excellence have earned him widespread acclaim in women’s college basketball.
7. Joni Taylor – Texas A&M
Joni Taylor, the head coach of Texas A&M Aggies, holds the seventh spot with a salary of $1.5 million. Taylor’s strategic brilliance and commitment to player development have propelled Texas A&M to prominence in the sport.
8. Lisa Bluder – Iowa
Lisa Bluder, guiding the Iowa Hawkeyes, earns a salary of $1.4 million, securing the eighth spot on the list. Bluder’s coaching tenure is characterized by a strong emphasis on teamwork and tactical innovation.
9. Teri Moren – Indiana
Teri Moren, the head coach of Indiana Hoosiers, commands a salary of $1.25 million, securing the ninth spot on the list. Moren’s coaching style emphasizes discipline and resilience, driving Indiana’s success in women’s college basketball.
10. Adia Barnes – Arizona
Adia Barnes, leading the Arizona Wildcats, rounds off the top 10 with a salary of $1.2 million. Barnes’s coaching prowess and strategic insights have propelled Arizona to prominence in women’s college basketball.
Endorsement Deals for College Coaches
In addition to their salaries, college coaches have the opportunity to sign endorsement deals, similar to players. While it’s less common for coaches to appear in commercials compared to players, notable figures like Dawn Staley have ventured into endorsement deals, expanding their influence beyond the court. With the spotlight on women’s college basketball continuing to grow, the potential for coaches to capitalize on endorsement opportunities is on the rise.
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Summing it Up!
The top 10 highest-paid women’s college basketball coaches exemplify excellence, leadership, and dedication to the sport. From guiding their teams to victory on the court to leveraging their influence off the court, these coaches play a pivotal role in shaping the landscape of women’s college basketball. As the sport continues to evolve, the contributions of these coaching luminaries will undoubtedly leave a lasting legacy in NCAA women’s basketball.
