Columbia News

University of Missouri Director of Athletics Laird Veatch addressed the ongoing search for a new head coach for the women's basketball program during a press conference on Friday. Veatch emphasized the university's optimism about the future of its women's basketball team and highlighted both the competitive landscape and institutional support for the sport.

"We are excited about the future. We really believe we have a special opportunity here. We see and know from success in other programs the potential for programs to be highly successful at Mizzou, and we also know how our people support it. If you have a competitor, if you show real energy and passion and the capacity and ability to win, our people are going to be out there and support you and show up, particularly in this sport right now in this country, women's basketball is, as you all know, clearly, it is on the rise, right. It is getting so much more attention, deservedly so, and we think it is a platform that can continue to plot and provide more brand exposure and benefit to our university, to our state, and particularly in this conference. There's no question the SEC continues to be, seems like every sport you talk about these days, it's right there at the top. To be really the only Midwest school in the SEC, I think that's a real advantage in this sport in particular. Women's basketball is highly competitive in the Midwest, and there's a lot of talent here that can be realized."

Veatch noted that investments made into facilities have contributed positively to building momentum around Mizzou athletics: "You all are sitting in our arena. You see our facilities, that's an investment that's been made, and it continues to be just a great home for our program... So, for many reasons we feel really good about the opportunity. I want to assure you; we're committed to it. It's important. Women's Basketball is important..."

He described significant interest from candidates seeking to lead Missouri’s women’s basketball team: "We have also seen considerable interest... But I want to assure you there is a lot of interest in this position."

On qualities sought after in candidates for head coach positions Veatch said: "I wanted to start by... what are we looking for? Here is how I would articulate that... I want to start with a proven winner. Preferably head coach experience... preferably multiple stops... A proven recruiter... has really demonstrated ability to manage recruiting in this era with transfers etc.... somebody with real energy... but also very relatable..." He stressed understanding Missouri culture as essential: "...for somebody that really fits Missouri mid-Missouri Mizzou..."

Discussing hiring timelines amid transfer portal considerations he added: "There's pressures in any of these high-profile hires.... we've got coaches/candidates continuing playing here so we've got mindful of that..."

Veatch confirmed institutional commitment: "First of all we are committed.... We've demonstrated commitment level particularly football men's basketball recent years you've seen results.... Up top levels university they want us win/succeed..." He acknowledged financial pressures but pointed out potential revenue growth within women’s basketball.

Asked about Midwest familiarity as factor Veatch responded: "I think it's factor.... plays into recruiting network if nothing else indicates fit..."

Regarding timing he explained flexibility was necessary depending on candidate situations.

On experience requirements he said breadth across multiple levels was preferred over specific conferences or divisions.

Addressing pressure involved with making such hires he stated focus remains on doing right by student-athletes/fans rather than external attention.

Reflecting on outgoing leadership Veatch credited Robin Pingeton’s contributions while expressing desire for continued community connection alongside greater competitiveness: "I do think it's very well-run program… Part of that is Robin her leadership… We want continue carry goodness around program forward then need compete/win higher level."