Cleveland State University announced a significant addition to its women's basketball coaching staff, naming Rachel Balzer as an assistant coach for the upcoming 2026‑27 season.
Head coach Bob Dunn made the announcement, recalling that he first met Balzer nearly half of her life ago and that he reached out to her immediately after deciding to expand his staff.
A Coach With a Proven Track Record
Balzer arrives after three seasons at Longwood University, where she helped the Lancers to back‑to‑back 20‑win campaigns, a first in Division I history for the program. Under her guidance the team captured a Big South Championship game appearance and secured a WNIT berth during the 2024‑25 season, earning 11 postseason honors, including two Defensive Player of the Year awards.
Her ascent was recognized by the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association, which placed her on its Thirty Under 30 list, a testament to her growing influence in the sport.
From Player to Coach
Balzer’s transition from player to coach was shaped by injury. She played three seasons at George Mason University under Dunn, where she developed a high basketball IQ that later defined her coaching philosophy. After sustaining injuries, she shifted to a coaching intern role, a move that set the stage for her subsequent leadership positions.
Dunn praised Balzer’s work ethic, describing her as a ‘true gym rat with a high basketball IQ’ and expressing confidence that her experience will elevate the program’s competitiveness.
The hiring reflects Cleveland State’s intent to blend continuity with fresh ideas. By bringing in a coach who has already contributed to winning cultures at nearby institutions, the Vikings aim to sustain momentum and deepen recruitment pipelines in the region.
Balzer will join the Vikings’ staff alongside Dunn, bringing a blend of playing experience, administrative acumen, and a proven record of player development. Her appointment underscores the university’s commitment to investing in talent that understands both the rigors of competition and the nuances of mentorship.