In a bold move to revitalize its struggling women’s basketball program, the Houston Cougars officially named Matthew Mitchell as its eighth head coach on Thursday, March 27. The 54-year-old former Kentucky mentor brings an impressive track record of success and, according to sources, is making $600,000 annually on a five-year contract.
Houston’s leadership is banking on Mitchell’s proven ability to build winning programs as they seek to end their 14-year NCAA Tournament drought. The three-time SEC Coach of the Year compiled a stellar 303-133 record at Kentucky, including three Elite Eight appearances before retiring in 2020 following a brain injury from a fall.
Matthew Mitchell’s Championship Pedigree
Mitchell’s tenure at Kentucky from 2007 to 2020 established him as the best coach in program history. His remarkable resume includes nine NCAA Tournament appearances, five Sweet Sixteen runs, and ten 20-win seasons.
His most successful campaign came in 2011-12 when he guided the Wildcats to a 28-7 record and the SEC regular-season championship.
We got our guy 👏
Welcome to Houston, Head Coach Matthew Mitchell! pic.twitter.com/TrQRcKXePY
— Houston Women’s Basketball (@UHCougarWBB) March 27, 2025
The coaching veteran expressed enthusiasm about his return in a statement, stating, “I am incredibly excited and deeply grateful for the opportunity to become the Women’s Basketball head coach at the University of Houston. It is a true honor stepping into this role in a city with such a rich basketball history.”
Houston’s transition to the Big 12 Conference in 2023 brought increased resources and visibility, but competitive success remained elusive under former coach Ronald Hughey.
During Hughey’s 11-year tenure, the Cougars failed to reach the NCAA Tournament, contributing to a program drought that began in 2011.
Vice President for Athletics Eddie Nuñez also highlighted Mitchell’s character.
“I am fully confident that Coach will build a nationally competitive basketball program composed of outstanding young women who will be proud to wear the Cougar uniform, who will earn their degrees, and who will be wonderful representatives of the University in the community.”
Mitchell’s championship experience presents a stark contrast to Houston’s recent struggles. His proven ability to engineer rapid turnarounds transforming Kentucky from a 16-16 record in 2008-09 to 28-8 the following season offers hope to Cougar fans eager for success.
The modern Fertitta Center, renovated in 2018 for $60 million, provides an impressive home venue for the program’s rebirth.
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Mitchell faces significant challenges as he returns to coaching after a five-year hiatus. He’ll need to navigate the evolving landscape of college athletics, including NIL deals and the transfer portal, while rebuilding a competitive roster in the talent-rich Big 12.
However, his reputation as a program builder and talent developer positions Houston for potential growth in the coming seasons. An introductory press conference is scheduled for Tuesday at noon at the Fertitta Center, where Mitchell will officially begin his mission to restore Houston women’s basketball to national relevance.
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