A Strategic Addition for the Lakers
Grand Valley State University announced this week that Scott Carlson has joined the women's basketball program as an assistant coach, replacing Phil Sayers who departed after a distinguished tenure.
Carlson arrives with more than fifteen years of coaching experience, having served as an assistant at Ferris State where he helped guide the Bulldogs to three consecutive twenty‑plus win seasons and three NCAA Tournament berths.
During his time at Ferris State the team ranked among the nation’s most efficient shooting squads, a testament to Carlson’s emphasis on offensive precision and player development.
Prior to that, Carlson spent two seasons at Western Michigan, where his contributions translated into a ten‑win improvement and a return to the MAC Tournament, underscoring his ability to elevate programs quickly.
Before entering the collegiate ranks, Carlson excelled as the head coach of the girls basketball team at Kent City High School, amassing a 229‑49 record and setting multiple state records for three‑point shooting.
His coaching journey began with an AAU program that captured three state championships, and he completed his education at Calvin College with a bachelor’s degree in political science, a background that informs his strategic outlook.
University leadership highlighted the strategic value of Carlson’s experience, noting that his proven record of developing talent and optimizing offensive schemes positions the program for continued growth and success in upcoming seasons.
The hiring reflects a broader commitment to building a sustainable pipeline of skilled coaches, a goal that aligns with the university's long‑term vision for its athletics department.