Kellie Harper, the winningest head coach in Mizzou women's basketball history, revealed this week that she has expanded her coaching cadre by enlisting Devin Hill and Mike Nicholson as new assistants.
A Strategic Boost for the Program
Mike Nicholson arrives with more than three decades of coaching experience, a track record that includes a Sweet 16 appearance with Kansas State in 2025 and a national championship at the University of Central Missouri in 2018.
During his five‑year tenure as chief of staff at Kansas State, Nicholson oversaw a period marked by three NCAA tournament berths, a 2025 Sweet 16 run, and the development of talent that earned a first‑round NBA draft pick, Tony Dumas.
His earlier success at the University of Central Missouri, where he guided the team to a Division II title and a Final Four appearance the following year, underscores his ability to cultivate winning cultures across different levels of competition.
Devin Hill, who spent the 2025‑26 season at Bryant University as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator, brings a diverse background that includes stints at LIU Brooklyn, South Shore Christian Academy, Putnam Science Academy, DME Sports Academy, Queens College, and a playing career at DePaul University.
At South Shore Christian Academy, Hill transformed the boys’ basketball program into a top‑five national contender and reshaped the school’s athletic model, demonstrating both strategic vision and on‑court acumen.
Harper emphasized that the new staff members will leverage their extensive networks to enhance recruiting, elevate player development, and sustain the program’s upward trajectory in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference.