USC WOMEN’S BASKETBALL STUNS FANS WITH RETURN OF NNEKA OGWUMIKE AS ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH — SIGNS 4-YEAR DEAL WORTH….SEE MORE…..

USC WOMEN’S BASKETBALL STUNS FANS WITH RETURN OF NNEKA OGWUMIKE AS ASSOCIATE HEAD COACH — SIGNS 4-YEAR DEAL WORTH….SEE MORE…..

LOS ANGELES, CA — In a groundbreaking move that has energized fans and elevated expectations for the USC Trojans women’s basketball program, the university has announced the return of Nneka Ogwumike, one of its most celebrated alumni, as the team’s new Associate Head Coach. The deal spans four years with a total value of $4 million, making her one of the highest-paid assistant coaches in women’s college basketball.

Ogwumike, a former No. 1 WNBA draft pick and six-time All-Star, was introduced Tuesday morning at Galen Center alongside Head Coach Lindsay Gottlieb, who called it “a transformational hire.”

“This is more than a homecoming,” said Ogwumike. “This is a mission. I want to help return USC women’s basketball to national dominance—and inspire the next generation to believe they can be both champions and leaders.”

A Return to Roots

Though her most high-profile college years were spent at Stanford, Ogwumike’s professional and personal connection to Southern California—and her influence within the broader Pac-12 (and soon Big Ten) footprint—has long made her a fixture in USC basketball conversations.

A Los Angeles Sparks legend and veteran of USA Basketball, Ogwumike will now help guide a Trojan squad on the rise. Her leadership, experience, and global visibility are expected to elevate USC’s recruiting and competitive edge immediately.

“We’re not just bringing back a star—we’re bringing back a force,” Coach Gottlieb said. “Nneka knows what elite basketball looks like. Her presence in the gym will raise the bar for everyone.”

From Player to Mentor

As Associate Head Coach, Ogwumike will focus on player development, leadership training, and offensive strategy, especially for forwards and post players. She’s already begun reviewing film with the staff and plans to mentor team captains one-on-one throughout the offseason.

“When I was coming up, I had women who showed me what greatness looked like,” she said. “Now it’s my turn to do the same—for USC, for these players, and for the sport I love.”

Ogwumike, who’s expected to finish her final WNBA season this summer with the Seattle Storm, will officially take the court with USC at the start of preseason workouts in August.

A Power Move for the Program

The hiring is seen as a statement of intent by USC, who recently signed the nation’s No. 3 recruiting class and reached the Sweet 16 in back-to-back seasons. With Ogwumike now on staff, the Trojans are poised to become a perennial contender for Final Fours.

“She gives us instant credibility,” said Athletic Director Jennifer Cohen. “But more than that, she gives us heart. She’s a role model who represents everything USC wants to stand for.”

Community, Legacy, and Long-Term Vision

Ogwumike, known for her advocacy for women athletes and social justice, said her appointment also signals a broader shift in how schools are investing in women’s sports.

“This isn’t just a coaching job—it’s about building legacy, equity, and visibility,” she said. “We’re here to win titles, yes. But we’re also here to shift culture.”

Fans across Los Angeles have responded with overwhelming excitement. USC’s official announcement received over 2 million impressions on social media within 24 hours, and pre-orders for season tickets have jumped 30% since the news broke.

“I’ve watched Nneka dominate for years,” said USC sophomore guard Avery Johnson. “To be coached by her? That’s unreal. I’m ready to learn everything I can.”

Looking Ahead

USC will enter the 2025–26 season with a stacked roster, national buzz, and now, one of the most respected minds in women’s basketball on the sideline.

“I’m not here for nostalgia,” Ogwumike said with a smile. “I’m here to win. And I’m here to bring USC back to the top where it belongs.”