After more than a decade of dedication, Ronald Hughey’s tenure as the head coach of Houston women’s basketball has officially come to a close. The program, which he guided for 11 seasons, will now look to the future while Hughey leaves behind a legacy filled with both triumphs and challenges.
Ronald Hughey’s Departure Marks End of An Era for Houston Cougars
On Thursday, Houston announced Hughey’s resignation, closing the chapter on his 11-season journey with the Cougars. Taking charge of the program in 2014, Hughey led the team through a rollercoaster of seasons, ultimately compiling a record of 140-195.
Under his leadership, the Cougars made three WNIT first-round appearances, a testament to the progress he made with the team despite facing hurdles along the way.
Before stepping into the head coaching role at Houston, Hughey honed his skills as an assistant coach at various prominent programs, including Florida State, Texas, and Rutgers. His coaching career involved a series of experiences that shaped his approach to the game.
These experiences allowed him to build relationships with players and colleagues across the college basketball landscape. Joseph Duarte, a well-known sports journalist, highlighted Hughey’s departure on social media, bringing attention to the end of an era for Houston basketball.
“We thank Coach Hughey for his dedication to the Houston Women’s Basketball program and this great University,” Houston Vice President for Athletics Eddie Nuñez said in an official statement.
Statement from Houston women’s coach Ronald Hughey, who resigned Thursday after 11 seasons:
“Houston, Mrs. Chizer, Dr. Khator, Eddie Nuñez and all my former players and coworkers, thank you. I appreciate and love you.”
— Joseph Duarte (@Joseph_Duarte) March 6, 2025
“We appreciate Coach Hughey’s efforts during his time at Houston and his loyalty to our student-athletes. We will conduct a national search to identify the next leader to move our program forward,” the statement read.
A Tough Season And Difficult Goodbye
Houston’s 2024 season was far from ideal, as the team struggled to find its footing in the highly competitive Big 12 Conference. The Cougars finished with a 5-25 overall record and managed only a single victory in 18 conference games.
Their season came to an end on Wednesday when they fell to Colorado in the first round of the Big 12 Tournament, marking a disappointing conclusion to Hughey’s tenure.
Despite the challenging season, Hughey remained deeply connected to his players and the Houston community. His coaching style was built on passion, resilience, and a commitment to player development, traits that earned him respect within the program. In an emotional farewell message, Hughey expressed gratitude to those who supported him throughout his tenure.
“Houston, Mrs. Chizer, Dr. Khator, Eddie Nuñez, and all my former players and coworkers, thank you. I appreciate and love you,” Hughey said in a press release.
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With Hughey’s departure, Houston is now tasked with finding a new head coach to guide the women’s basketball program into its next chapter.
The Cougars will aim to rebuild and regain their competitive edge, with hopes of making their first NCAA tournament appearance since 2011. The national coaching search will be a critical process in shaping the team’s future as Houston looks for a leader who can bring renewed energy and success to the program.
The university’s decision-makers will likely seek a coach with a strong track record in both recruitment and player development, especially as they navigate the challenges of the Big 12. While the transition may be difficult, it also presents an opportunity for the program to take a fresh approach and strive for greater achievements in the coming seasons.
Ronald Hughey’s time in Houston may have come to an end, but his influence on the program will not be forgotten. His tenure was marked by moments of growth, perseverance, and a commitment to his players, leaving behind a foundation for future success.
As the Cougars move forward, the legacy of his dedication will remain a part of the program’s history.
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