UCF Hires Gabe Lazo as New Head Coach

Lazo replaces assistant role under Kim Mulkey to lead Knights program

Apr. 4, 2026 at 5:56pm

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The University of Central Florida has hired Gabe Lazo as its new head women's basketball coach, replacing his previous assistant coaching position under Kim Mulkey. Lazo, known for his passion and ability to connect with players, will now take the reins of the Knights program.

Why it matters

The move represents a significant career advancement for Lazo, who has been an assistant coach under Mulkey at several schools. His promotion to a head coaching role at a Division I program like UCF is an important milestone and demonstrates the trust the university has placed in his leadership abilities.

The details

Lazo, who has over a decade of coaching experience, will be tasked with continuing to build upon UCF's recent success in the American Athletic Conference. As an assistant, he has helped develop several standout players and is known for his strong recruiting ties, particularly in the state of Florida.

  • Lazo was officially announced as the new UCF head coach on April 4, 2026.

The players

Gabe Lazo

The new head coach of the UCF women's basketball team, known for his passion, energy, and ability to connect with players.

Kim Mulkey

The former head coach of the UCF women's basketball team, under whom Lazo served as an assistant coach before being promoted to the top job.

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What’s next

Lazo will begin assembling his coaching staff and recruiting players to build upon UCF's recent success in the American Athletic Conference.

The takeaway

Gabe Lazo's promotion to head coach at UCF represents an important career milestone and demonstrates the university's confidence in his ability to lead the women's basketball program to continued success.