Maureen Magarity, the 2017 Kay Yow National Coach of the Year, has been appointed head coach of the University of Vermont women’s basketball team, succeeding Alisa Kresge who departed for the University of Richmond.
Deep Roots in the Game
Magarity’s coaching journey began at the University of New Hampshire and later at College of the Holy Cross, where she honed a philosophy centered on disciplined play and player development. She shares a long‑standing relationship with Kresge, dating back to their college days at Marist, and both credit their former coach Brian Giorgis for shaping their approach.
Beyond the X’s and O’s, Magarity brings a personal connection to Burlington. Married to John Becker, the university’s men’s basketball head coach, the couple raises two young daughters while navigating the unique blend of community passion and institutional expectations.
A Roster Poised for Continuity
The program enters the upcoming season with remarkable stability. All returning players have been retained, and the majority of incoming freshmen have committed, allowing the team to build on recent successes that include three NCAA Tournament appearances in the last four years.
Senior forward Keira Hanson is currently pursuing a waiver that would grant her an additional year of eligibility, a move that could further strengthen the squad’s depth.
Fans have rallied around the team, packing Patrick Gym for home games and creating an atmosphere that Magarity describes as the most supportive she has experienced. The combination of enthusiastic attendance and a cohesive roster sets the stage for a promising campaign.