Baylor Bears women’s basketball coach Nicki Collen expressed her disdain for The Washington Post’s profile of LSU’s former coach Kim Mulkey, following a close loss to USC in the Sweet 16. The article described Baylor as no longer being among the sport’s upper tier after Mulkey’s departure. Collen, who took over for Mulkey, disagreed with this assessment, stating that nothing is withering in Waco and that her team is still a first-tier contender. She emphasized the team’s accomplishments under her leadership, including making the tournament in each of her first three seasons.
Collen, who just wrapped up her third season with the Bears, led the team to the Sweet 16 for the first time in her tenure. She highlighted the progress and growth happening within the program, refuting claims of decline following Mulkey’s exit. While Mulkey only made it as far as the second round once in her first three seasons, Collen’s team has already showcased its potential by taking a No. 1 seed down to the wire in a one-possession game in the Sweet 16. She invited journalists to visit Waco and witness the positive developments firsthand in the coming seasons.
Prior to her role as Baylor’s head coach, Collen had a successful coaching career in the WNBA, earning the Coach of the Year title in 2018 with the Atlanta Dream. She also gained experience as an assistant coach with the Connecticut Sun and various collegiate programs. A former college basketball player herself, Collen’s background at Purdue and Marquette has undoubtedly shaped her coaching philosophy and approach. Her impressive track record and dedication to her team have played a crucial role in propelling Baylor to success on the court.
The recent matchup against USC in the Sweet 16 shed light on Baylor’s resilience and competitive spirit under Collen’s guidance. Despite facing tough competition as an underdog, the team fought valiantly and pushed the No. 1 seed to the brink in a thrilling contest. Collen’s leadership and strategic acumen were on full display, showcasing her ability to inspire and motivate her players to perform at their best. The future looks bright for Baylor women’s basketball, as Collen continues to cultivate a winning culture and elevate the program to new heights.
As Baylor’s coach, Collen has shown a remarkable ability to overcome challenges and turn setbacks into opportunities for growth. Her unwavering confidence in her team’s potential and her commitment to excellence have solidified her position as a respected figure in the world of women’s basketball coaching. With her leadership, Baylor is poised to remain a force to be reckoned with in the competitive landscape of college basketball. Collen’s dedication to her players and her passion for the game shine through in every aspect of her coaching. The legacy of success she is building at Baylor is a testament to her unwavering belief in the team’s ability to achieve greatness.
