Tara VanDerveer, the winningest basketball coach in NCAA history, announced her retirement after 38 seasons leading the Stanford women’s team and 45 years overall. Throughout her career, VanDerveer went out of her way to help and mentor young coaches, such as Dawn Staley, Cori Close, Lindsay Gottlieb, and others, who now consider themselves fortunate to have been guided by her wisdom and kindness. As VanDerveer departs on a high note, her legacy in women’s basketball is unquestionable, having won three NCAA titles and reached the Final Four 14 times.
VanDerveer’s successor, Kate Paye, who has been a top assistant coach under VanDerveer for 17 years, is set to take over the Stanford program following negotiations. VanDerveer’s impact on those around her extends beyond the basketball court, as she has been known to reach out and offer assistance even to opponents, as was the case when Stanford was upset in the NCAA Tournament in 2013 and she reached out to help Cal’s coach, Lindsay Gottlieb. These acts of kindness and sportsmanship have left a lasting impression on many who have crossed paths with her.
Throughout her illustrious career, VanDerveer has left an indelible mark on the sport of women’s basketball. Coaches who were mentored by her, like Cori Close of UCLA, consider the influence she has had on their coaching careers to be invaluable. VanDerveer’s dedication to the game and her willingness to help and support others have helped elevate the level of women’s basketball across the board. Her retirement marks the end of an era in college basketball, but her legacy will continue to impact the sport for years to come.
VanDerveer’s last day is scheduled for May 8, the 39th anniversary of her hiring at Stanford. She plans to continue working for the athletic department in an advisory role, ensuring that her expertise and knowledge will continue to benefit the program. VanDerveer’s commitment to her athletes and the sport of basketball has been unwavering throughout her career, and her impact on the lives of those she has coached and mentored is immeasurable.
Rosalyn Gold-Onwude, who played on the 2008 Final Four squad under VanDerveer, expressed her gratitude for her coach’s contributions to the sport and her achievements in shaping women’s basketball. VanDerveer’s decision to retire has been met with widespread support and well-wishes from former players, coaches, and colleagues, who all acknowledge her incredible legacy in the sport. As she steps away from coaching, VanDerveer leaves behind a lasting impact that will be felt for generations to come.
VanDerveer reflected on her career, highlighting the joy she experienced in working with young women and helping them form strong bonds through the game of basketball. She expressed her love for the sport and her gratitude for the opportunities it has provided her throughout her life. As she embarks on the next chapter, VanDerveer’s work in women’s basketball will continue to be celebrated and remembered as a testament to her dedication, passion, and leadership in the sport.
