On April 2, American University Director of Athletics and Recreation JM Caparro announced that Kelly Killion would be the next head coach of the women’s basketball team. She succeeds Tiffany Coll, whom Caparro announced last month would not return next season following a one-win 2024-25 campaign.
On April 8, Killion was formally introduced at a press conference alongside Caparro and American University President Jonathan Alger.
In his statement, Alger praised Killion’s “clear understanding of the educational role of a coach” and her “strong track record of both competitive and academic success as a coach and standout player.”
He expressed optimism for the future of American women’s basketball, saying, “I love to talk about dreaming big, and that’s what we’re going to do for this program going forward under Kelly’s leadership.”
Caparro spoke next. He came to American University in April 2024, and Killion is his first head coaching hire. Caparro stated that the department wanted a proven winner who has built a program from the ground up. American women’s basketball won the Patriot League title and appeared in the NCAA Tournament in 2022, but has struggled since, winning just 20 of their last 91 games.
“Above all, we wanted someone with grit, passion and drive that would align with the culture of our department,” Caparro said. “Without a doubt, I’m confident we have found that person.”
Finally, Killion came to the podium. “As our program embarks on a new era, I want to ensure you that you will see a passionate, gritty and selfless group who will work extremely hard on a daily basis. We will strive to outwork our opponents and put our best foot forward each time we step on the floor.”
Killion expressed her gratitude to Alger and Caparro for the opportunity to lead the program. She thanked her family members, many of whom were in attendance, and tearfully pointed out Mike McLaughlin, the women’s basketball head coach at the University of Pennsylvania, where Killion has coached for the past 9 years. She played as a student athlete for McLaughlin at Holy Family University from 2004-08.
Killion undoubtedly faces a tall task taking over a team that ended its season 356th in the net rankings of the 362 NCAA Division I women’s basketball teams. On top of that, the team’s leading scorer and rebounder Cecilia Kay, a member of the 2024-25 Patriot League All-Rookie Team, has entered the transfer portal, according to On3. But Killion remains optimistic. She’s inheriting a young team, of which most members will return next year, and she says she hopes to build their confidence over the next seven months with a series of small, daily wins.
She ended her statement by addressing her new players directly, looking at them seated at the front of the room.
“As we begin this next chapter together, I promise to work hard for you, tirelessly, to challenge you and most importantly, care for you. I look forward to cultivating a culture that we can celebrate and be proud of for years to come. Now let’s get to work, AU!”
This article was edited by Connor Sturniolo, Penelope Jennings and Walker Whalen. Copy editing done by Olivia Citarella and Nicole Kariuki.
