TUCSON, Ariz. (AP) — The University of Arizona has appointed Becky Burke from Buffalo as the new head coach for their women’s basketball team.
Burke replaces Adia Barnes , who departed to take over as SMU's coach last week.
Our model focuses on selecting head coaches who emphasize success in teaching, recruitment, and fostering high-character student-athletes," stated Arizona Athletic Director Desiree Reed-Francois on Wednesday. "Coach Burke stands out as an accomplished program developer and a promising figure in college women’s basketball, boasting a history of groundbreaking achievements. She has a deep understanding of both the Wildcats and the close-knit community here in Tucson.
Over the last three years, Burke was with Buffalo, guiding the team to a record-breaking 30 victories and securing theWNITtitle in the 2024–25 season. Under her leadership, Buffalo made it to the finals of the Mid-American Conference tournament despite being predicted to place fourth in their conference.
Previously, Burke had a two-season tenure as the head coach for USC Upstate and another two seasons at the Division II level with the University of Charleston. Following her time as an assistant at both Saint Joseph’s and Cal State Fullerton, she went on to coach for two years at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University located in Prescott, Arizona.
Burke participated in the NCAA Tournament with Louisville as a player on three occasions, which included an appearance in the 2009 national championship game.
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