Born: 1965 (Healdton, Oklahoma)
Biography:
Sherri Kay Coale, born on January 19, 1965, is a retired college basketball coach who made a significant impact on the sport during her illustrious career. For 25 years, from 1996 to 2021, Coale served as the head coach of the University of Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team, leaving an indelible mark on the program.
Coale was born and raised in Healdton, Oklahoma, where she developed a passion for basketball from an early age. After completing her undergraduate studies at Oklahoma Christian College in Oklahoma City, where she graduated summa cum laude in 1987, she joined the school’s Lady Eagles basketball team as a guard. Her time as a player laid the foundation for her future coaching career.
Coale’s coaching journey began at Norman High School, where she spent six years leading the local high school squad. In 1996, she accepted the head coaching position at the University of Oklahoma, transitioning from coaching a high school team to an NCAA Division I program. It was a formidable challenge, considering the state of turmoil the Sooners’ women’s basketball team was in at the time of her arrival.
However, Coale wasted no time in turning the program around. Within just four years, she led the Sooners back to the NCAA Tournament, showcasing her remarkable ability to inspire and motivate her players. But her most memorable season came in 2002 when she guided the Sooners to the national championship game. Although they fell short against the undefeated Connecticut team, Coale’s leadership brought the program into the national spotlight.
Throughout her coaching career, Coale achieved numerous accolades and milestones. In the 2005-2006 season, her Sooners went undefeated in Big 12 play, becoming just the second Big 12 basketball team, men’s or women’s, to achieve this feat. She also led the Sooners to back-to-back NCAA Tournament Final Four appearances in 2009 and 2010, solidifying her reputation as one of the top coaches in women’s college basketball.
Coale’s impact extended beyond the court. Known for her dedication to her players’ holistic development, she emphasized the importance of education and character-building. Her commitment to fostering a positive team culture not only produced successful athletes but also empowered her players to become strong and confident individuals.
In recognition of her outstanding contributions to the sport, Coale was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016, a testament to her legacy in women’s basketball history. Her efforts as a coach, mentor, and role model have inspired countless young women to pursue their dreams and strive for excellence both on and off the court.
After an extraordinary career, Coale announced her retirement at the conclusion of the 2020-2021 season. Her impact on the University of Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball program will be felt for years to come, and her indomitable spirit ensures that her influence on the sport will continue to inspire future generations.
Awards:
– Inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2016.