The coaching carousel has officially reached Piscataway. After parting ways with Coquese Washington, Rutgers Scarlet Knights are searching for a leader who can restore the program’s identity in the ultra-competitive Big Ten Conference.
Washington finished her four-year tenure with a 42-84 overall record and an 11-61 mark in conference play. With Rutgers missing the Big Ten Tournament and falling behind conference rivals, Athletic Director Keli Zinn now faces a defining hire. Here are five potential candidates who could be in the mix.
1. Carla Berube – Princeton head coach
Berube is the best choice for Rutgers if they want to develop a successful program. She has made the Princeton Tigers a strong Ivy League team by leading them to repeated NCAA Tournament berths and Round of 32 runs.
Berube has won over 80% of her games at Princeton and previously built Division III Tufts into a national force. If Rutgers is ready to spend money, she would be a good choice since she can develop players and keep a winning culture going.
2. Tony Bozzella – Seton Hall head coach
Bozzella is a good fit for the area and has been successful at Seton Hall Pirates for many years. He has led the Pirates to multiple NCAA Tournament and WNIT appearances and knows Northeast recruiting inside and out.
Hiring Bozzella would signal stability and experience. His familiarity with the landscape and Rutgers’ backyard recruiting battles could provide immediate credibility.
3. Carly Thibault-DuDonis – Fairfield head coach
One of the rising stars in women’s basketball coaching, Thibault-DuDonis has elevated Fairfield Stags to new heights. The Stags reached the AP Poll and made back-to-back NCAA Tournament appearances under her leadership.
At just 34, she represents a fresh, energetic hire who understands modern roster building and the transfer portal era.
4. Megan Griffith – Columbia head coach
Griffith has turned the Columbia Lions into a real Ivy League contender. Under her supervision, Columbia has made it to the NCAA Tournaments two years in a row, which is a big step for the program.
Her experience developing players and recruiting in the Northeast is a good fit for what Rutgers needs.
5. Gary Redus – LSU assistant coach
A wildcard but intriguing name, Redus has been a key recruiter on LSU Tigers staff during their recent national championship run. His connection to Rutgers president William Tate, who previously served at LSU adds another layer of interest.
While he lacks Division I head coaching experience, Redus’ recruiting prowess could help Rutgers close the talent gap quickly.
Rutgers’ decision will hinge on investment. Competing in the Big Ten requires NIL support, recruiting resources, and long-term commitment. With the program’s proud history under C. Vivian Stringer, expectations remain high.
The next hire won’t just shape next season; it could define Rutgers women’s basketball for the next decade.
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