Southern Illinois University Edwardsville announced that Veronica Sheffey will serve as a graduate assistant coach for the Cougars' women's basketball program during the 2026‑27 season.
Sheffey, a Woodinville, Washington native, arrives after a standout collegiate career at Texas Christian University and San Diego State University, where she helped the Aztecs capture their first Mountain West Tournament title in over a decade and earn a berth in the NCAA Tournament.
From Elite Eight to the Cougars' Bench
At TCU she contributed to an Elite Eight run, shooting 45.5 percent from the field and averaging 4.1 points per game, while also hitting 13 three‑pointers and going 38‑of‑45 from the free‑throw line.
During the 2024‑25 season she led San Diego State in scoring with 11.2 points per game, recorded 21 double‑digit outings and was named Mountain West Tournament Most Valuable Player.
Her family ties run deep in college sports; her father Tyrone and brother Jaden played football at the University of Washington, while her grandmother Gloria Mercer starred on the basketball court for Seattle University.
Head coach Samantha Quigley Smith, who has known Sheffey for more than five years, highlighted the hire as a boost for the team's point guards and playmakers, citing her winning experience and deep understanding of the game.
Sheffey's addition is expected to enrich the Cougars' backcourt development and overall competitiveness as they prepare for the upcoming season.