Full Breakdown
Texas State University Appoints Chris Kielsmeier as New Women's Basketball Coach
4/1/2026, 1:24:18 PM
Transition to New Leadership
Texas State University has announced the hiring of Chris Kielsmeier as the new head coach for its women's basketball program. Kielsmeier, who previously led Cleveland State University for eight seasons, takes over following the resignation of Zenarae Antoine, the program's all-time winningest coach, who stepped down after 15 years. The Bobcats finished the 2022-23 season with an 11-19 record and are preparing to transition into the Pac-12 Conference next season.
Kielsmeier's Coaching Background
Chris Kielsmeier brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record to Texas State. During his tenure at Cleveland State, he compiled a record of 180-80, achieving six seasons with at least 20 wins, including a record-setting 30-win campaign in 2022-23. Under his leadership, the Vikings reached the NCAA tournament in 2023 and secured the Horizon League regular-season title in 2024, along with a postseason championship in the Women's Basketball Invitational in 2021. Kielsmeier's coaching career spans over 25 years, including successful stints at Wayne State College and Howard Payne University, where he won a national championship in 2008.
Official Statements & Responses
Texas State University Director of Athletics Don Coryell expressed confidence in Kielsmeier's ability to elevate the program, stating, "Chris Kielsmeier is a proven winner and one of the most respected coaches in women’s basketball. His track record of success, combined with his ability to recruit at a high level, makes him the ideal leader for our program." Kielsmeier himself remarked, "I am thrilled to be joining the Texas State community... I can’t wait to get started with building on the tradition and success the program has had in the past while instilling a new standard of excellence."
Criticism & Opposition
While the hiring of Kielsmeier has been largely met with optimism, some critics point to the challenges ahead as Texas State transitions to a more competitive conference. The Bobcats have not made an NCAA tournament appearance since 2003, raising questions about whether Kielsmeier can quickly turn the program around in the Pac-12.
What's Next
As Texas State prepares for its inaugural season in the Pac-12, Kielsmeier's immediate focus will be on recruiting and developing talent to compete at a higher level. The program aims to achieve its first NCAA tournament appearance in over two decades, setting ambitious goals for the upcoming season.
Verbatim Quotes
- “I am thrilled to be joining the Texas State community and looking forward to an amazing opportunity to build something really special with the Bobcat Family,” — Chris Kielsmeier, Head Coach
- “Chris Kielsmeier is a proven winner and one of the most respected coaches in women's basketball,” — Don Coryell, Director of Athletics, Texas State University
- “I can’t wait to get started with building on the tradition and success the program has had in the past while instilling a new standard of excellence that will see the Bobcats women’s basketball program become a perennial contender for championships and postseason bids.” — Chris Kielsmeier, Head Coach
With Kielsmeier at the helm, Texas State aims to redefine its women's basketball program and establish itself as a competitive force in the Pac-12.
