DeMoss named newest Women's Basketball assistant coach

AUSTIN, Texas -- University of Texas women’s basketball head coach Gail Goestenkors completed her staff Tuesday with the hiring of Mickie DeMoss, head coach at The University of Kentucky from 2003-07 and an associate head coach at The University of Tennessee from 1985-2003.

DeMoss’s appointment is effective July 15, 2007.

Considered one of the top coaches in women’s basketball, DeMoss compiled a 71-56 record, including consecutive 20-win seasons, and three post-season appearances (one NCAA and two WNIT) while the Kentucky Wildcats head coach. She was 2005-06 Southeastern Conference Coach of the Year. DeMoss’ teams attracted record attendance figures during her time as head coach. Every one of her players who completed their eligibility graduated as well.

Under legendary head coach Pat Summitt, DeMoss was part of six NCAA national championship efforts and 13 NCAA Final Four appearances as part of the Lady Vols coaching staff, and was considered among the most effective recruiters in the nation.

Prior to her time at Tennessee, she was assistant coach at Auburn University (1983-85) and at Memphis State (1977-79) and was a head coach at The University of Florida (1979-83). DeMoss received her undergraduate degree at Louisiana Tech University in 1977 and a master’s degree in education at Memphis State University in 1979.

"Months ago, I left the coaching profession -- to retire, really -- and take my first break from the game of basketball," DeMoss said. "It was not an easy decision, but one I truly needed to make.

"My time off was substantial. It was unprecedented in my past personal history. These months allowed me to reassess what I wanted to do. I learned what my personal comfort zone and preferences would be in any work environment.

"There were many opportunities presented to me, not all of which were in sports," DeMoss concluded. "Frankly, the situation at Texas is the only job in basketball that would take me out of retirement. I am very comfortable with this decision to move forward and to work for Gail and The University."

"We have a strong, experienced staff of assistant coaches, and all of us are excited to take on the challenges ahead," noted Goestenkors. "We have individuals familiar with building championship teams, and that is what Texas stands for -- excellence."