In a surprising announcement, Tara VanDerveer, the winningest basketball coach in NCAA history with an impressive 1,216 victories, has decided to retire. This news was confirmed by Stanford on Tuesday evening, marking the end of an era in women’s basketball. Negotiations are currently in progress for Kate Paye, a former player under VanDerveer and a long-time member of her coaching staff, to take over as her successor.
During her 38 years at Stanford, VanDerveer solidified herself as one of the most distinguished coaches in the sport. She led the Cardinal to three national championships and an astounding 14 Final Four appearances. Prior to Stanford, she also coached at Idaho (1978 to 1980) and Ohio State (1980 to 1985), showcasing her versatility and skill in the field of coaching.
Reflecting on her career, VanDerveer expressed her gratitude for the support she received throughout her coaching journey. She emphasized that basketball is the ultimate team effort, highlighting the joy she found in witnessing her players work hard for each other and form unbreakable bonds. For VanDerveer, winning was a byproduct of the journey and the shared commitment to excellence.
Despite her retirement from head coaching, VanDerveer will remain involved with Stanford and its athletics department in an advisory role. Stanford’s athletic director, Bernard Muir, paid tribute to her enduring impact on the sport of women’s basketball. He credited VanDerveer with pioneering advancements in the field and shaping the landscape of the game for generations to come. Her legacy at Stanford and her contributions to the sport have solidified her as one of the most influential figures associated with the university.
Tara VanDerveer’s retirement marks the end of a remarkable coaching career that has left an indelible mark on women’s basketball. Her dedication, passion, and commitment to her players have not gone unnoticed, and her legacy will continue to inspire future generations of athletes and coaches in the sport.
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