basketball
Becky Burke Takes the Helm: New Era Begins for Arizona Wildcats Women’s Basketball
Becky Burke has officially taken the reins as the new head coach of the Arizona women’s basketball team, and her introduction marks a significant moment for the program. Known for her intense competitive spirit, Burke stated, “I am in the top 1% of competitive people on the planet. No one will ever outwork me … and no one’s ever going to outwork us.”
As the Wildcats prepare for their second season in the Big 12 Conference, Burke has introduced a new rallying cry: “Bear down, baby!” This fresh motto reflects her vision for the team, but the focus now shifts to rebuilding a roster that faces challenges due to player transfers. Currently, only redshirt junior forward Montaya Dew remains on the scholarship roster from last season, as ten players are either in the transfer portal or have committed elsewhere. Notably, guard Jada Williams, last season’s leading scorer, has transferred to Iowa State.
Burke recognizes the importance of player retention in building a strong team. As she navigates a limited roster, she reassured potential returnees, saying, “Ultimately, I’m making sure they know that they have a home here, they are appreciated and respected.”
With ambitions for a national championship in the next three to five years, Burke expressed her commitment to the program’s rich history. “I didn’t just want a job. I wanted the job,” she emphasized, making it clear that leading the Wildcats holds special significance for her.
Burke’s coaching journey has taken her to various levels of college basketball. Having launched the program at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in Prescott, she moved on to roles at the University of Charleston and South Carolina Upstate before her stint at the University of Buffalo. Under her guidance, Buffalo achieved a WNIT championship and a record 30 wins last season, elevating her career coaching record to 174-92.
Her hiring comes shortly after the departure of Adia Barnes, who left for Southern Methodist University. Desireé Reed-Francois, Arizona’s vice president and director of athletics, commended Barnes for her contributions, underscoring her legacy within the program. Barnes led the Wildcats to four consecutive NCAA tournament appearances and a run to the national championship game in 2021.
Barnes was recently embroiled in controversy after comments regarding her move to SMU, leading her to issue an apology on social media. Meanwhile, Burke’s hiring marks the final movement in a season of changes within Arizona’s women’s basketball, as other local programs have also seen coaching shifts.
Now, Burke faces the task of revitalizing a program with a history of NCAA tournament success, including five consecutive 20-win seasons recently. “I don’t see any reason why we can’t reclaim our spot among the nation’s elite,” she affirmed, setting the stage for her tenure in Tucson.
