Vermont Hires Maureen Magarity as Women's Basketball Coach

Vermont has made a significant move in collegiate athletics by hiring Maureen Magarity as the head coach of its women's basketball team, marking the first time in NCAA Division I history that a married couple will lead both a men's and women's basketball program at the same institution. Magarity, previously the head coach at Holy Cross, takes over following the departure of Alisa Kresge, who accepted a position at Richmond. This decision comes shortly after Kresge's announcement, which followed a series of coaching changes in the women's basketball landscape.

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Maureen Magarity brings a successful track record to Vermont, having led Holy Cross to consecutive Patriot League tournament titles and NCAA tournament appearances in 2023 and 2024. Her overall coaching record at Holy Cross stands at 72 wins and 41 losses. After stepping down from her position in 2024, citing "family reasons," Magarity relocated to Burlington, Vermont, where her husband, John Becker, has been the head coach of the men's team since 2011. Becker has guided the Catamounts to six NCAA tournament appearances during his tenure.

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In a statement regarding her new role, Magarity expressed gratitude to Vermont's athletic director, Jeff Schulman, for his confidence in her abilities. She stated, "I'm honored... I will work tirelessly to maintain the standards that have been established here." Magarity also highlighted her appreciation for the Burlington and UVM community, indicating her commitment to continuing the championship culture fostered by her predecessor.

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While the hiring of Magarity has been met with enthusiasm, some critics may question the implications of hiring a married couple to lead both teams. Concerns about potential conflicts of interest or favoritism could arise, although no specific dissenting voices have been reported in this instance.

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• "I'm honored... I will work tirelessly to maintain the standards that have been established here." — Maureen Magarity, Head Coach, Vermont Women's Basketball

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• "What we accomplished these four years at Holy Cross... It's the most incredible run I ever could have dreamed of." — Maureen Magarity, reflecting on her tenure at Holy Cross

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As Magarity transitions into her new role, she will aim to build on the foundation laid by Kresge and further develop the Vermont women's basketball program. The upcoming season will be pivotal as she seeks to establish her coaching identity and lead the team in a competitive landscape.

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