Aaron Roussell Introduced as New UVA Women's Basketball Head Coach

The former Richmond coach takes over the Cavaliers program with high expectations

Apr. 14, 2026 at 12:19am

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A fragmented, cubist-inspired painting depicting the dynamic motion and energy of a women's basketball game, with sharp geometric shapes in navy, orange, and white overlapping to create a sense of movement and intensity.The new era of UVA women's basketball under Coach Roussell will be defined by an energetic, up-tempo style of play that aims to captivate fans and compete at the highest levels.Los Angeles Today

Aaron Roussell was officially introduced as the new head coach of the University of Virginia women's basketball team. Roussell comes to Charlottesville after a successful seven-year stint at the University of Richmond, where he built the Spiders into a competitive program. In his introductory press conference, Roussell expressed excitement about the opportunity at UVA and outlined his vision for establishing a 'sustained excellence' program that can compete at the highest levels nationally.

Why it matters

The UVA women's basketball program has struggled in recent years, failing to make the NCAA Tournament since 2010. Roussell's hiring represents a chance to revitalize the team and return it to prominence in the ACC and nationally. As an up-and-coming coach with a track record of success, Roussell brings optimism that he can build the Cavaliers into a consistent winner.

The details

Roussell, 44, spent the last seven seasons as the head coach at the University of Richmond, where he led the Spiders to a 124-77 record and three postseason appearances. Prior to that, he had head coaching stints at Division III Bucknell University and Division III Edgewood College. In his introductory press conference, Roussell emphasized the importance of establishing the right culture and standards within the program, as well as assembling a talented coaching staff to aid in player development and roster construction.

  • Roussell was hired as the new UVA women's basketball head coach on March 23, 2025.
  • His introductory press conference took place on the same day, March 23, 2025.

The players

Aaron Roussell

The new head coach of the University of Virginia women's basketball team, who previously served as the head coach at the University of Richmond for seven seasons.

Carla Williams

The athletic director at the University of Virginia, who hired Roussell to lead the women's basketball program.

Jim Beardsley

The president of the University of Virginia, who welcomed Roussell to the university.

Tammi Reiss

The former UVA women's basketball player and current assistant coach, who Roussell spoke with during the hiring process.

Tammi Staley

The head coach of the South Carolina women's basketball team, who Roussell consulted with after being hired at UVA.

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What they’re saying

“This is a really special place. I could tell already from the outside, but also from where we are right now. I wouldn't be here if I didn't think the ceiling was really high. I wouldn't be here if I didn't think we could do really, really great things.”

— Aaron Roussell, New UVA Women's Basketball Head Coach

“This is going to be a place that should win at the highest of levels on the national stage. And that's my pitch to recruits. And then once we get the right kids in here, it's giddy up and let's go.”

— Aaron Roussell, New UVA Women's Basketball Head Coach

What’s next

Roussell and his staff will immediately begin the process of assembling a roster for the 2025-26 season, with the goal of quickly returning the UVA women's basketball program to national prominence.

The takeaway

Roussell's hiring represents a fresh start and renewed optimism for the UVA women's basketball program. His track record of success, emphasis on culture and player development, and ambitious vision for the Cavaliers have energized the fanbase and university community. If Roussell can translate his coaching acumen to the ACC level, UVA could soon be back competing for conference titles and NCAA Tournament berths.