Penn State Publicizes Change in Management of the Lady Lion Basketball Program – Penn State

UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. – Penn State will make a change in leadership for the Lady Lion Basketball program, Vice President for Intercollegiate Athletics Dr. Patrick Kraft announced Thursday.  

Carolyn Kieger concludes her time in Happy Valley after seven seasons at the helm of the women’s basketball program with an 84-123 record at Penn State and 183-188 overall head coaching record.  

“We appreciate Coach Kieger’s commitment and passion she brought to Penn State Lady Lion Basketball,” said Kraft. “Looking ahead, we remain committed to competing at the highest level, and we believe a change in leadership is necessary to propel the program toward sustained excellence.” 

Throughout her years in University Park, Kieger coached Makenna Marisa, a two-time All-Big Ten first team member and Leilani Kapinus, an All-Big Ten Defensive team selection. Most recently, she mentored Gracie Merkle, the tallest Lady Lion in program history and the nation’s leader in field goal percentage for 14-straight weeks. Kieger also guided the Lady Lions to the final four of the inaugural Women’s Basketball Invitation Tournament in 2023-24. 

A national search for the next head coach of the Penn State women’s basketball program will begin immediately.