Kahleah Copper, Chicago Sky WNBA Star, Joins Rutgers as Assistant Coach

Kahleah Copper returns to her alma mater, Rutgers University, as an assistant coach for the women’s basketball team. The Chicago Sky’s talented wing will take on the role of Director of Athletic Culture and Professional Development. During her time as a player at Rutgers from 2012-16, Copper made a name for herself by averaging 14 points and 5.8 rebounds, all under the coaching of C. Vivian Stringer.

Reflecting on her return, Copper expressed her excitement, stating, “I think it’s crazy that I’ve been having some full circle moments. I’m super excited to be back and pour into the program that molded me into the player and person I am. I’m excited to go back to my roots where it all began for me. Give back to that program and help develop the next generation of pros.”

Upon learning that Copper would be joining as a coach, Rutgers coach Coquese Washington saw the excitement in her players’ eyes, describing them as “big as saucers.”

Before taking on this role at Rutgers, Copper served as an assistant coach for the Purdue University Northwest basketball team in 2020-21. This experience allowed her to develop a newfound appreciation for coaching, leadership, and consistency, as she explained, “I appreciate scouts more, being a leader and being a player that is consistent. You see the difference in what that makes. A leader comes in every day and is consistent.”

Washington, the head coach at Rutgers, shared that she recognized herself in Copper, having pursued coaching during her time as a professional WNBA player. She saw potential in Copper’s transition from player to coach and is eager to guide her on this journey.

As a player, Copper has had an impressive career, earning accolades such as being drafted seventh by the Washington Mystics in 2016 and winning the WNBA championship with the Chicago Sky. Her experience as a professional athlete, combined with her overseas stints in Belgium, Turkey, and other countries, has equipped her with valuable insights that she can now bring to the college coaching arena.

Copper’s move to coaching mirrors a trend in the WNBA, with other players like Rhyne Howard, Ariel Atkins, Rachel Banham, and Brionna Jones also making the transition to college coaching positions. This shift demonstrates the impact and influence of WNBA players in shaping the next generation of basketball stars.

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