Kara Lawson Appointed Head Coach of U.S. Women’s Basketball Team for 2028 Olympics
In a significant move for U.S. women’s basketball, Kara Lawson has been named the head coach of the national team for the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games in Los Angeles. This announcement, made by USA Basketball on Monday, marks a pivotal moment in Lawson’s career, as she transitions from a successful player and assistant coach to the helm of the national team.
A Legacy of Excellence
Kara Lawson’s journey in basketball is nothing short of remarkable. She was part of the U.S. women’s basketball team that clinched a gold medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, a feat that solidified her status as one of the sport’s elite. Now, nearly two decades later, she has the opportunity to lead the team to another Olympic victory on home soil.
In a recent phone interview, Lawson expressed her excitement about the role. “It’s hard to put everything into words as it’s something I’ve been working towards. I have so much love for USA Basketball and have been so excited to serve in any capacity they ask me to,” she stated. Her passion for the sport and commitment to excellence are evident, making her a fitting choice for this prestigious position.
A New Era in Coaching
The decision to appoint Lawson as head coach is the first major action taken by Sue Bird, who recently assumed the role of U.S. national team director. In the past, coaching appointments were made by a committee, but Bird’s choice reflects a shift towards a more streamlined decision-making process. “I think her resume, her experience, it all kind of speaks for itself,” Bird noted, emphasizing Lawson’s extensive background with USA Basketball.
Lawson’s coaching experience is extensive. She has served as an assistant coach for the U.S. team that won gold at the 2022 World Cup and is set to lead the team in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Additionally, she was the head coach for the U.S. 3-on-3 team that won gold at the Tokyo Games, marking a historic moment as it was the first time this format was included in the Olympics.
Challenges Ahead
Lawson’s first major test as head coach will come at the World Cup in Germany next September. However, she faces a scheduling challenge, as the U.S. will participate in a qualifier for the tournament in March, coinciding with the NCAA Tournament. Lawson is currently the head coach of the Duke University women’s basketball team, where she has made significant strides, including leading the Blue Devils to their first ACC Tournament championship under her leadership.
“Finding the right group that will fit is our challenge,” Lawson remarked, highlighting the importance of assembling a strong coaching staff and roster. Her experience at Duke, where she has advanced the team further in the NCAA Tournament each year, will be invaluable as she navigates the complexities of coaching at the national level.
A Rich History with USA Basketball
Lawson’s connection to USA Basketball dates back to 1998 when she participated as a high school player in the World Youth Games. Over the years, she has amassed an impressive collection of 13 gold medals in various international competitions. USA Basketball CEO Jim Tooley praised her extensive experience, stating, “To say her journey with us has been impressive is an understatement.”
Her coaching philosophy is deeply influenced by her time as a player under the legendary Pat Summitt at the University of Tennessee. Summitt, who led the U.S. women’s basketball team to gold at the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, instilled in Lawson the values of discipline, teamwork, and resilience-qualities that she aims to bring to her coaching role.
The Significance of Home Soil
The 2028 Olympics will be particularly special for Lawson, as it will be the first time the U.S. hosts the Games since 1996. “The opportunity to lead the American side in Los Angeles in a home Olympics is more added icing on the cake,” she said. This unique circumstance not only enhances the stakes for the team but also provides a platform for showcasing the growth and talent of women’s basketball in the United States.
Hosting the Olympics presents a rare opportunity for athletes to compete in front of their home crowd, fostering a sense of national pride and unity. Lawson’s leadership will be crucial in harnessing this energy and translating it into success on the court.
Conclusion
Kara Lawson’s appointment as head coach of the U.S. women’s basketball team for the 2028 Olympics is a testament to her dedication, experience, and passion for the sport. As she embarks on this new chapter, the basketball community eagerly anticipates her strategies and leadership style. With a rich history of success and a commitment to excellence, Lawson is poised to guide the team toward another Olympic gold, making her mark in the annals of U.S. sports history.
