David Heard, a Southern Oregon University alumnus, has been appointed interim head coach of the women's basketball program for the 2026‑27 season. His hiring follows the resignation of Carlotta Kloppenburg‑Pruitt, who stepped down after a distinguished tenure that included five Cascade Conference titles.
Heard retired after 34 years in the Central Point School District, spending the final 11 years as athletic director at Crater High School. During his coaching career he compiled a 255‑85 record, captured six state tournament trophies, and earned seven conference championships while being named Southern Oregon Conference Coach of the Year twice.
A Legacy of Excellence
Beyond his school‑based roles, Heard has been involved with the SOU program since 2023 in a volunteer capacity. He also brings a personal connection to the university, having attended from 1985 to 1990 and holding the program’s highest career three‑point percentage. His daughter, Mallory Heard, played for the Raiders from 2017 to 2022, further embedding the family within the campus community.
Heard’s appointment is seen as a bridge between the program’s recent successes and its future direction. He aims to uphold the high standards set by his predecessors, emphasizing both competitive excellence and academic integrity.
The university plans to launch a national search for a permanent head coach next spring, ensuring that the team continues to build on the foundation laid by Kloppenburg‑Pruitt and the previous coaching staff.