Rutgers Hires Gary Redus II as New Women's Basketball Coach

Former LSU assistant praised for his recruiting prowess and player development

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Rutgers University has named Gary Redus II as the new head coach of their women's basketball team, replacing Coquese Washington. Redus previously served as an assistant coach at LSU, where he helped recruit and develop star player Angel Reese. Reese praised the hire, calling Redus "so deserving" and expressing pride in his former coach.

Why it matters

Redus is regarded as one of the top recruiters in women's college basketball, having helped land top recruiting classes at LSU. His hiring at Rutgers is seen as a major coup that could help revitalize the Scarlet Knights' program and return it to an elite level.

The details

Redus spent the last four seasons as an assistant coach at LSU, working under head coach Kim Mulkey. During his time there, he helped recruit and develop star player Angel Reese, who went on to win a national championship. Prior to LSU, Redus had assistant coaching stints at West Georgia, Delta State, Vanderbilt, and SMU.

  • Redus was named the new Rutgers women's basketball head coach on March 9, 2026.
  • He served as an assistant coach at LSU from 2022 to 2025.

The players

Gary Redus II

The new head coach of the Rutgers women's basketball team, known for his recruiting prowess and player development skills.

Angel Reese

Former star player at LSU who played under Redus, and praised his hiring at Rutgers.

Keli Zinn

The Rutgers athletic director who worked with Redus previously at LSU and praised his hiring.

Kim Mulkey

The head coach at LSU, where Redus served as an assistant coach.

Coquese Washington

The previous head coach of the Rutgers women's basketball team, who Redus is replacing.

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What they’re saying

“So deserving! Proud of you my guy!!”

— Angel Reese (Twitter/X)

“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to be the next women's basketball coach at Rutgers University. I am no stranger to the rich history of basketball here at Rutgers and I look forward to building on that legacy as we move the program forward.”

— Gary Redus II, Rutgers Women's Basketball Head Coach (Rutgers University)

“We are thrilled to welcome Gary and his family to Rutgers. Having worked with him previously, I've seen firsthand the energy, commitment, and competitive mindset he brings to coaching. Coach Redus is well known as one of the top recruiters in the country, with an exceptional ability to create relationships and attract elite talent.”

— Keli Zinn, Rutgers Athletic Director (Rutgers University)

What’s next

Redus will begin assembling his coaching staff and recruiting players to Rutgers as he looks to revitalize the women's basketball program.

The takeaway

Rutgers has made a bold move in hiring Gary Redus II, a highly regarded recruiter and developer of talent, to lead their women's basketball team. His strong relationships and track record of success could help the Scarlet Knights return to prominence in the Big Ten.