USD Extends Women's Basketball Coach's Contract

Carrie Eighmey signs 5-year deal to remain Coyotes head coach through 2031 season.

Apr. 10, 2026 at 7:59am

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A fragmented, geometric painting in shades of red and gold, dynamically capturing the motion and action of a women's basketball game.The University of South Dakota's commitment to its women's basketball program is reflected in a bold, cubist-inspired illustration capturing the energy and intensity of the game.Vermillion Today

The University of South Dakota and women's basketball head coach Carrie Eighmey have agreed to a new five-year contract extension that will keep Eighmey leading the Coyotes program through the 2030-31 season, according to an announcement from USD Athletic Director Jon Schemmel.

Why it matters

Eighmey has built the USD women's basketball team into a consistent winner, leading the Coyotes to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances. Retaining Eighmey's leadership is crucial for the program's continued success and recruiting top talent to Vermillion.

The details

Eighmey's new contract extension will run through the 2030-31 season, locking in the head coach's commitment to the Coyotes for the next five years. The extension comes after Eighmey guided USD to a 25-7 record and a Summit League regular season title in the 2025-26 campaign.

  • The contract extension was announced on April 10, 2026.

The players

Carrie Eighmey

The head coach of the University of South Dakota women's basketball team, who has led the Coyotes to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances during her tenure.

Jon Schemmel

The Athletic Director at the University of South Dakota, who announced Eighmey's contract extension.

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What they’re saying

“Carrie has done an outstanding job building our women's basketball program into a consistent winner, and we're thrilled to have her continue leading the Coyotes for the foreseeable future.”

— Jon Schemmel, Athletic Director, University of South Dakota

What’s next

The Coyotes will look to build on their recent success and compete for another Summit League title and NCAA Tournament berth in the 2026-27 season.

The takeaway

Retaining head coach Carrie Eighmey's leadership is a major win for the University of South Dakota women's basketball program, which has become a consistent contender under her guidance. The contract extension signals the school's commitment to maintaining the Coyotes' status as a Summit League power.