Former Kentucky women’s basketball coach Matthew Mitchell is stepping back onto the court, this time in Houston. After a three-year hiatus, Mitchell has been named the new head coach of the University of Houston women’s basketball team, pending board approval. The hire marks a fresh start for the Cougars, who are looking to rebuild under his leadership.
A New Era for Houston Women’s Basketball
Houston is getting a coach with a proven track record. Mitchell led Kentucky to nine NCAA Tournament appearances, including three Elite Eight runs. Now, he faces the challenge of reviving a program that finished 5-25 last season.
Vice president for athletics Eddie Nuñez expressed confidence in Mitchell’s ability to transform the team. “He has a tremendous track record of success at every step in his career and leads with high character and integrity,” Nuñez said.
Mitchell replaces Ron Hughey, who stepped down after 11 seasons with a 140-195 record. The contrast in coaching histories is stark, but Houston believes Mitchell can turn things around.
A Legacy of Winning at Kentucky
Mitchell spent 13 seasons at Kentucky, where he became the program’s all-time winningest coach with 303 victories. During his tenure, the Wildcats consistently ranked among the SEC’s top teams.
- 10 seasons with 20+ wins
- 7 seasons with 25+ wins
- 9 NCAA Tournament appearances
- 3 Elite Eight finishes
His success wasn’t just about wins. Mitchell was known for building strong teams and developing talent. His leadership helped Kentucky gain national recognition as a powerhouse in women’s basketball.
The Unexpected Retirement
Mitchell stunned many in 2020 when he announced his retirement just before the season. The decision followed a serious brain injury he suffered while hiking in Mexico, which led to a subdural hematoma and required surgery.
Initially, it was assumed health concerns led to his departure. However, Mitchell later clarified that he was physically fine and cleared to coach. Instead, his priorities had shifted. With family at the forefront, he stepped away to focus on personal matters, including time with his grandchildren and aging parents.
A New Chapter in Houston
The Cougars are banking on Mitchell to bring his winning mentality to Houston. The program, which struggled in its first Big 12 season, needs a reset.
- Houston finished 1-17 in Big 12 play last season.
- Mitchell’s contract reportedly spans five years.
- His salary is set at approximately $600,000 per year.
- This is more than double what Hughey earned previously.
Houston has seen glimpses of success in the past, but sustained winning has been elusive. Mitchell’s hiring signals a commitment to change, and Cougar fans are eager to see how he reshapes the program.
Beyond Basketball: Leadership and Mentorship
During his time away from coaching, Mitchell wasn’t idle. He launched a business focused on leadership development and authored multiple books on the subject. His experience outside the game could bring a fresh perspective to the Houston program.
Mitchell’s leadership style has always emphasized integrity, development, and building a winning culture. At Kentucky, his teams were known for their discipline and strong work ethic. If he can instill the same mindset in Houston, the Cougars could be on the path to national prominence.
