On Thursday, West Virginia University announced the hiring of Dawn Plitzuweit to be their new head women’s basketball coach. This news comes less than one week after she led the University of South Dakota to the Sweet 16 of the NCAA Tournament.
Throughout her six years with the Coyotes, Plitzuweit led USD to three Summit League tournament championships and four appearances in the NCAA Tournament. She also had five seasons in which she won at least 20 games, and she won nearly 90% of her conference games as well.
Plitzuweit’s best season, however, came this year as she led the Coyotes to a 29-6 overall record, a Summit League regular season title, a Summit League tournament championship, and two wins in the NCAA tournament.
In a press release from West Virginia University, Plitzuweit mentioned her excitement for the next chapter in her coaching career, but also took a moment to appreciate the University of South Dakota.
“I would also be remiss if I didn’t thank our players, administration, and all of Coyote Nation at the University of South Dakota for everything they have done for me, my family, and our program,” Plitzuweit said. “I will miss you all so much and hope that we can recruit you to cheer for the Mountaineers now.”
Throughout her 15-year career as a head coach, she has an overall record of 346-129.
The University of South Dakota also released a statement on Thursday announcing the change. USD plans to begin a national search for its 11th head women’s basketball coach immediately.
