Western Kentucky University’s women’s basketball program has announced the hiring of Jon Plefka and C’eira Ricketts as assistant coaches for the upcoming 2026‑27 season, a move that underscores the team’s intent to deepen its tactical bench.
Plefka arrives after a standout tenure that included a head‑coaching stint at the University of Massachusetts Lowell during the 2025‑26 campaign and previous leadership roles at Auburn Montgomery, where he guided the team to a school‑record 20 wins and its first Gulf South Conference semifinal appearance, as well as at Post University, where he amassed 84 victories and captured three division titles.
Ricketts, a former standout for the University of Arkansas, was recruited to the Razorbacks by head coach Greg Collins and left as the program’s all‑time leader in steals with 321. Her collegiate accolades include SEC and Associated Press Freshman of the Year honors, a WNBA Draft selection by the Phoenix Mercury, and professional MVP and Player of the Year recognitions in Austria.
Beyond her playing achievements, Ricketts served as the Director of Student‑Athlete Development at Arkansas, blending on‑court insight with administrative experience. Together, Plefka’s proven coaching record and Ricketts’ high‑level playing background promise a complementary addition to the Lady Toppers’ staff.
A Blend of Leadership and Experience
The university highlighted that the new assistants will bring a mix of strategic acumen and elite playing experience, positioning the program for competitive growth as it prepares for the next season. Their combined expertise is expected to reinforce recruitment efforts, player development, and game‑planning initiatives.
University officials expressed confidence that the coaching duo will help sustain the program’s upward trajectory, citing the pair’s proven ability to elevate team performance at their previous institutions.