Mid-Major Program Secures Alabama Women’s Basketball Coach
South Florida has hired Kristy Curry to lead its women’s basketball program, the school announced Tuesday. Curry leaves Alabama after a 12-year run as head coach of the Crimson Tide.
Why USF moved quickly
The Bulls had an opening after Jose Fernandez accepted a WNBA job with the Dallas Wings. USF briefly named Michele Woods-Baxter interim for the 2025-26 season.
USF finished the previous year 20-12 overall and 13-5 in American Athletic Conference play. The team missed the NCAA Tournament, prompting the search for an experienced leader.
Curry’s final season at Alabama
Curry’s Tide went 24-11 this past season, with a 7-9 mark in SEC play. Alabama earned a six seed in the NCAA Tournament and beat 11-seed Rhode Island in the opening round.
The Tide then lost to three-seed Louisville by one point in the Round of 32. Despite regular appearances, Curry never advanced past the second weekend during her Alabama tenure.
Postseason résumé
Curry reached the NCAA Tournament in five of the last six seasons at Alabama. She also guided the team to second-round berths in each of the past three years.
Career background
Curry became Alabama’s head coach in 2013. Before that, she led Texas Tech from 2006 to 2013, earning two NCAA Tournament appearances there.
Her earlier tenure at Purdue ran from 1999 to 2006. At Purdue she reached two Elite Eights and was national runner-up in 2001.
Reaction and implications
Curry praised the program’s foundation and expressed eagerness to pursue conference titles and NCAA success. She thanked Rob Higgins and noted excitement to coach at the Yuengling Center.
The mid-major program will benefit from Curry’s postseason experience. USF secures a proven Alabama women’s basketball coach to lead its next phase.
What it means for Alabama
Alabama must now begin a coaching search to replace Curry after a long tenure. The Tide’s recent NCAA consistency sets a high bar for the next hire.
Filmogaz.com will follow developments as both programs adjust to the coaching changes. Expect updates on coaching searches and staff moves in the coming days.
