Lindenwood’s women’s basketball program received a boost this week as head coach Phil Sayers unveiled two new additions to his coaching staff. John Leonzo will step into the role of Associate Head Coach, while Max Olsan joins as an assistant coach, bringing a blend of strategic acumen and energetic player development.
New Coaching Faces
Leonzo arrives after five seasons at Wright State University, where he helped shape a program that ranked second nationally in 3‑point makes per game during the 2022‑23 season. His tenure transformed the Raiders into a premier long‑distance shooting team, a feat that earned him recognition as a top offensive strategist. Prior to Wright State, he spent five years as an assistant at Cedarville University, served as basketball coordinator at Spooky Nook Sports, and contributed to AAU programs and summer camps with the University of Virginia and the Philadelphia 76ers.
Olsan comes from Pittsburg State University, where over the past two seasons he helped the Gorillas compile a 33‑4 record and win 51 games overall in the 2024‑25 campaign. He mentored an All‑American and four All‑MIAA honorees, and his previous stops include an assistant role at Boone High School and work with NBA and WNBA players through the Des Moines‑based AAU Iowa United. Olsan holds dual degrees in sports management and digital media from Buena Vista University and a master’s in sports journalism from Northwestern University.
Sayers highlighted that the new staff members bring a mix of analytical depth and hands‑on player development that aligns with Lindenwood’s ambition to compete at the highest level of Division I. Their combined experience across multiple conferences and professional pipelines is expected to accelerate recruiting and elevate on‑court performance.
The additions underscore the program’s commitment to building a coaching environment that blends innovative tactics with player‑centered growth, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.