Amber Whiting Steps Down as Head Coach of BYU Women’s Basketball Team After Loss to Kansas Wildcats
In a surprising move, Amber Whiting, head coach of the Brigham Young University (BYU) Cougars women’s basketball team, announced her resignation following a significant defeat to the Kansas Wildcats, with a final score of 62-95. The game, which was held this past weekend, ended in a crushing blow for the Cougars, further fueling concerns about the team’s performance this season.
Whiting, who took over as head coach just a year ago, expressed in her statement that the decision to step down was made with great deliberation, acknowledging the struggles the team has faced this season. The Cougars have shown inconsistencies, and despite a promising start, their recent performances have been underwhelming. This loss to the Wildcats marked a particularly low point, as the team was unable to keep up with Kansas’s offensive onslaught.
“I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to lead this team, but after careful consideration, I believe it is time for me to step away and allow the program to move in a new direction,” Whiting said in a statement released shortly after the game.
Under her leadership, the Cougars showed flashes of potential, but the lack of sustained success, particularly against top-tier teams, was a concern. The team’s overall record this season has been disappointing, and many expected improvements that have not materialized.
BYU athletic director Tom Holmo expressed appreciation for Whiting’s contributions, stating, “Amber worked tirelessly to build this program, and we are grateful for her commitment to the Cougars.” A search for her replacement is already underway, and interim leadership will be put in place for the remainder of the season.
Whiting’s departure comes as a surprise to many, leaving fans and analysts speculating about the future direction of BYU women’s basketball.
