Penn State fires women's basketball coach

Penn State women’s basketball coach Coquese Washington, who led the Lady Lions to three consecutive Big Ten regular-season championships from 2012-2014, was relieved of her duties Friday after 12 years on the job. Penn State athletic director Sandy Barbour said Washington is leaving the program under a mutual agreement with the university.

Washington, a three-time Big Ten Coach of the Year, compiled an overall record of 209-169, including 98-106 in the Big Ten. After winning the Big Ten in 2014 and going to the NCAA Sweet 16 for the second time, Washington led Penn State to only one more winning season.

The Lady Lions (12-18, 5-13) concluded this season with a 65-57 loss to Wisconsin in the first round of the Big Ten Tournament.

“I am very appreciative of Coquese’s contributions to the Lady Lion basketball program and Penn State,” Barbour said in a statement. “She is committed to developing young women, has been impactful in our community and we are grateful for her dedication. We thank her for 12 years of service to Penn State, and wish Coquese and her family all the best in their future endeavors. |

“We both agree that the program is not where it needs to be, and this change of leadership is best at this time.”

“I’ve had an amazing run at Penn State,” Washington said. “I’m grateful that I’ve had the opportunity to work with some wonderful people, especially the talented and dedicated staff members who were with me along this journey. I was fortunate to coach some extremely talented players along the way and will remember the fantastic experiences we enjoyed together.

“I am thankful for the Penn State and Lady Lion fans who supported us strongly year-in and year-out. I will always look back at my time at Penn State with fond memories while taking on this next chapter with my family.”