Kahleah Copper, WNBA Star, Returns to Rutgers as Chicago Sky Assistant Coach

Kahleah Copper, the star wing for the Chicago Sky, is returning to her alma mater Rutgers as an assistant for the women’s basketball team. She will take on the role of Director of Athletic Culture and Professional Development, bringing with her invaluable experience from her time as a player in the WNBA.

During her time at Rutgers from 2012-2016, Copper showcased her impressive skill set, averaging 14 points and 5.8 rebounds under the guidance of coach C. Vivian Stringer. Now, she is excited to give back to the program that played a crucial role in shaping her as both a player and a person.

Rutgers coach Coquese Washington expressed her excitement at having Copper join the coaching staff, highlighting the impact that Copper’s successful WNBA career will have on the players she will be coaching.

This will not be Copper’s first experience in coaching, as she previously served as an assistant at Purdue University Northwest, where she gained a deeper appreciation for the intricacies of coaching and leadership.

Washington, who had a similar experience transitioning from WNBA player to college coach, understands the challenges and responsibilities that come with such a transition. She sees Copper’s addition to the coaching staff as a major asset due to her extensive experience at the highest level of women’s basketball.

During her professional career, Copper has proven herself as a formidable athlete, earning MVP honors in the WNBA playoffs and playing overseas during the offseason. Her return to Rutgers reflects a growing trend of WNBA players transitioning into college coaching roles, further enriching the collegiate basketball landscape.

With the addition of Copper and other WNBA players to the coaching ranks, the college basketball scene is poised to benefit from the wealth of knowledge and experience that these accomplished athletes bring to their new roles. The impact of their influence is expected to resonate throughout the upcoming seasons, delivering a new dimension of expertise and mentorship to the next generation of basketball talent.

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Rachel Adams

Rachel Adams is your WNBA insider, delivering comprehensive coverage of women’s basketball. With a commitment to highlighting the talent and achievements of WNBA players, she provides game analysis, player profiles, and inspiring stories from the league.