For the third consecutive year, Jennie Baranczyk, the coach of the Oklahoma Sooners women’s basketball team, has been awarded the AP Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year.
Jennie Baranczyk’s remarkable achievement of being named the Associated Press Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year for the third consecutive year underscores her exceptional leadership and transformative impact on the University of Oklahoma’s women’s basketball program. This honor highlights her strategic acumen, player development, and the sustained success of the Sooners under her guidance.​CorrectSports
Background and Coaching Philosophy
Before her tenure at Oklahoma, Baranczyk established herself as a formidable coach at Drake University, where she led the Bulldogs to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and set several program records. Her coaching philosophy emphasizes a balanced offensive attack, disciplined defense, and fostering a culture of trust and accountability among her players. This approach has been instrumental in her success at Oklahoma, where she has consistently led the team to high performance in the Big 12 Conference and on the national stage.​University of Oklahoma+1AP News+1CorrectSports
Sustained Excellence at Oklahoma
Since taking the helm at Oklahoma in 2021, Baranczyk has orchestrated one of the most successful periods in the program’s history. In her first season, she guided the Sooners to an impressive 25–7 record and a deep run in the NCAA Tournament, earning a 3-seed and advancing to the Sweet Sixteen. This performance marked a significant milestone, as it was the program’s first season in the Southeastern Conference (SEC), reflecting Baranczyk’s adaptability and leadership in navigating the challenges of a new conference.​Wikipedia+1CorrectSports+1
Player Development and Recognition
Under Baranczyk’s mentorship, several players have garnered national recognition. Notably, Skylar Vann was named the Big 12 Player of the Year in 2024, and Payton Verhulst received the Big 12 Newcomer of the Year award. Additionally, Baranczyk has coached multiple All-American selections, further testament to her ability to develop talent and elevate individual performances within a team-oriented system.​University of Oklahoma+1Wikipedia+1Wikipedia+1University of Oklahoma+1
Cultural Impact and Leadership
Beyond on-court success, Baranczyk has cultivated a program culture centered on empowerment, resilience, and community engagement. Her leadership extends beyond tactical expertise, focusing on holistic player development and fostering an environment where athletes thrive both academically and athletically. This comprehensive approach has contributed to the sustained success and positive trajectory of the Oklahoma women’s basketball program.​CorrectSports
Jennie Baranczyk’s third consecutive selection as the AP Women’s Basketball Coach of the Year is a testament to her exceptional coaching abilities, player development, and the sustained success of the Oklahoma Sooners under her leadership. Her continued excellence positions her as a prominent figure in women’s collegiate basketball, and her impact on the sport will be felt for years to come.
