Oakland University announced this week that Chamissa Anderson has been elevated to associate head coach of the women’s basketball program, a move that underscores her growing influence within the team.
During her two‑year stint at West Virginia, Anderson’s defenses consistently ranked among the nation’s best, posting a No. 15 position in scoring defense, second in steals per game and fourth in forced turnovers, while the Mountaineers posted 25‑8 records and advanced to the NCAA round of 32 both seasons.
Her coaching trajectory includes a successful period at Stephen F. Austin, where a 55‑12 record and a 2022 NCAA Tournament berth highlighted her ability to develop talent, as well as tenures at Missouri Southern State University, Kansas City Community College and Trinity International University, where she captured a 2016 NJCAA Division II championship and earned recognition as a two‑year starter.
Head coach Keisha Newell praised Anderson’s leadership, noting her passion for player development and the lasting impact she will have on Oakland’s basketball culture as the program looks ahead.
The upcoming roster will feature newcomers such as Sheridan Beal, Samone Andrews and Berlynn Carlson, the latter earning Gatorade Player of the Year honors in Oregon for 2025, signaling a fresh infusion of talent.
A Coaching Legacy in the Making
Anderson’s journey from a volunteer assistant at Trinity International to a national‑level strategist reflects a commitment to building competitive programs from the ground up, a narrative that aligns with Oakland’s ambition to strengthen its presence in the Midwest conference.
With a blend of defensive acumen and recruiting savvy, the new associate head coach is poised to shape a culture that emphasizes growth, resilience and sustained success.