The University of Pittsburgh women's basketball program has announced the hiring of Madison Taylor as its new assistant coach and recruiting coordinator, a move that brings a blend of playing experience and administrative acumen to the Panthers' staff.
Taylor arrives after a three‑year stint at the University of North Carolina Wilmington, where she served as director of operations and assistant coach from June 2023 onward, overseeing logistics, academic support and day‑to‑day program management while also working directly with the team on the court.
During her tenure at UNCW she helped shape talent that earned conference recognition, including defensive standout Ali Zelaya, who was named 2025 CAA Defensive Player of the Year, and sharpshooter Kate Hollifield, who topped the CAA in 3‑point shooting at 43.5 percent in conference play, as well as playmaker Tia Dobson, the league’s top freshman assist leader.
A Strategic Addition for the Panthers
Her diverse background — spanning player development, operational oversight, and academic leadership — positions her to contribute immediately to Pitt's recruiting efforts and day‑to‑day program stability as the Panthers aim to climb the Atlantic Coast Conference rankings.
Prior to her coaching career, Taylor played collegiately at the College of Charleston, appearing in 101 games with 52 starts under head coach Robin Harmony, and she graduated with a bachelor's degree in public health in 2022 before completing a master's at Virginia Commonwealth University's Center for Sport Leadership in 2023.
Head coach Dan Olson praised the hire, noting Taylor's proven ability to identify and nurture talent, and expressed confidence that her strategic vision will help the program attract top recruits and compete more aggressively in the league.