Adrienne Shibles, a Hall‑of‑Fame coach whose career record stands at 419‑163 in Division III, is set to return to Colby College as the new head coach of the women’s basketball program. The announcement comes after a distinguished tenure that included stints at Swarthmore, Bowdoin and Dartmouth, and a recent administrative role at Bates College.
During her nine seasons at Bowdoin, Shibles became the winningest coach in the school’s history, compiling a 281‑67 record that produced eleven NCAA Tournament appearances and eight Sweet Sixteen berths. Her teams posted at least twenty‑one victories in every season except one, reaching back‑to‑back Division III championship games in 2018 and 2019, the latter earning her the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association’s Division III National Coach of the Year honor in 2019.
Shibles succeeds Chenel Harris‑Smith, who stepped down after seven seasons to become director of athletics at Woodward School in Quincy, Massachusetts. Under Harris‑Smith the Mules posted a 71‑76 record and captured the 2024‑25 NESCAC championship game, setting the stage for Shibles to bring her proven leadership to a program eager for the next chapter.
A Coach Who Embodies Colby’s Vision
In remarks reflecting on her journey, Shibles expressed gratitude to mentors such as Dick Whitmore and Carol Anne Beach, and highlighted the lasting impact of the Bates and Bowdoin communities on her career. She noted that the values of excellence and ambition that define Colby resonate deeply with her own coaching philosophy.
Amanda DeMartino, Colby’s director of athletics, described Shibles as a proven winner, mentor and leader whose track record aligns perfectly with the college’s aspirations. Her appointment signals a commitment to elevate the program while honoring the traditions that have shaped the Mules’ identity.