When it comes to women’s college basketball, these coaches have done it all—except win the big one. They’ve built powerhouse programs, racked up hundreds of wins, and developed elite talent.
If those weren’t big enough, they also transformed schools into national contenders. But that elusive national championship? Still just out of reach. Here’s a look at some of the most respected names in the game, still grinding for that one shining moment.
Top Women’s College Basketball Coaches Yet To Have a National Title
Cori Close – UCLA Bruins
Since taking the reins in 2011, Cori Close has turned UCLA into a national threat with a strong foundation built on player development and tactical brilliance. But her coaching journey hit a whole new level during the 2024-25 season.
With a phenomenal 34-2 record, Close led the Bruins to their first Final Four since 1979. That breakout year earned Close the 2025 Naismith Women’s College Coach of the Year honor. Close has often credited her coaching influences, especially UConn legend Geno Auriemma, saying, “The experience shaped my coaching philosophy.”
She’s come heartbreakingly close—but until a trophy is raised, Close and UCLA still have unfinished business.
Jeff Walz – Louisville Cardinals
Jeff Walz has been a staple of March Madness since 2007. The man is a machine—465 wins, 12 Sweet Sixteens, eight Elite Eights, and two trips to the national championship game. And who could forget that legendary 2013 upset over No. 1 Baylor, when Louisville shocked the nation and danced all the way to the title game?
Walz is a mastermind when it comes to Xs and Os, and his consistency is second to none. Still, that one elusive win on the final Monday night keeps slipping through his fingers. But don’t count him out—his teams are always in the mix.
Wes Moore – NC State Wolfpack
Wes Moore has rebuilt NC State brick by brick since 2013, shaping the Wolfpack into one of the most disciplined and defensively dominant programs in the country. His attention to detail and tough-minded approach have translated to multiple 20-win seasons, top ACC finishes, and consistent NCAA Tournament runs.
The 2017 ACC Coach of the Year continues to push the Pack forward. But with no Final Four appearances yet, Moore’s next chapter might just be the most important one of his career.
Adia Barnes – SMU Mustangs
Adia Barnes stunned the nation when she took Arizona to the 2021 national title game. After years of building the Wildcats from the ground up, she created a gritty, resilient team that played with swagger and heart.
Now, Barnes is entering a new era at SMU, taking over in April 2025. Her task? Revive a struggling program and make it relevant—again.
“I am confident in the university’s commitment and ambition to compete nationally and within the ACC,” Barnes said in her introductory press conference. With four straight postseason appearances already under her belt, she knows what it takes. The title chase continues—in new colors.
Kellie Harper – Missouri Tigers
Kellie Harper has been everywhere—Western Carolina, NC State, Missouri State, and most recently, Tennessee, where she notched a 108-52 record and helped develop four WNBA first-round picks.
Now she’s back in familiar territory after taking over at Missouri in March 2025, ready to turn the Tigers into contenders. Her return to Missouri represents a homecoming and a fresh opportunity. With experience and recruiting chops in her arsenal, Harper is still gunning for that ultimate coaching milestone: her first natty.
Teri Moren – Indiana Hoosiers
When Teri Moren took over Indiana in 2014, the program wasn’t exactly a national name. Fast forward a decade, and she’s now the winningest coach in program history (226-99). Moren’s resume includes six NCAA appearances, three Sweet Sixteens, and an Elite Eight, plus a 2023 AP National Coach of the Year award.
She’s also produced WNBA talent and helped elevate Big Ten women’s basketball across the board. A national title is the only box left unchecked—but if anyone has the grit and patience to get there, it’s Moren.
Courtney Banghart – North Carolina Tar Heels
Courtney Banghart made waves at Princeton, winning Ivy League titles and turning the Tigers into a mid-major powerhouse. Since taking over UNC in 2019, she’s been on a mission to bring Carolina women’s basketball back to national relevance.
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Banghart’s style blends up-tempo offense with intense defense, and she’s quickly become a top recruiter. While her teams are always competitive, she’s still looking to break through the second weekend of the tournament. But with UNC’s resources and Banghart’s ambition, that could change sooner rather than later.
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