Interviews: Andy Carter and Candi Whitaker
Griffon Sports Insider: "CandiLand Remix 2022"
ST. JOSEPH, Mo. - Missouri Western State University will conduct a national search for its next head women's basketball coach after Candi Whitaker announced her resignation Monday. Whitaker has accepted the head coaching position at the University of North Alabama, an NCAA Division 1 institution in Florence, Alabama, and a place with deep ties to Griffon Nation.
"Coach Whitaker informed me of her decision and I am so appreciative of her character, class and leadership," MWSU Director of Athletics Andy Carter said. "She truly made an impact at Missouri Western, elevating our program back to where it belongs in the national spotlight. I know Griffon Nation wishes her and her family the best in their new role."
In her five years on the Western sidelines, Whitaker compiled a 100-47 record (.680%), including two NCAA Tournament appearances (2021-22, 2023-24), a trip to the Division II Elite 8 (2021-22) and an outright MIAA championship (2023-24). She was also named the conference's "Coach of the Year" this past season.
"This is a bittersweet day," Whitaker said. "I am excited about the opportunity ahead, but this was a decision that was very difficult for me, Matt and the boys. Missouri Western reignited my passion for coaching and for that I will be forever grateful. These past five years have been special. The MWSU staff, the St. Joseph community and our players brought to life all the things that the coaching profession should be. Our on-court success is a direct byproduct of our support system."
Whitaker, a Texas Tech alum and former Lady Red Raiders head women's basketball coach, rejoins the Division 1 ranks at a university that has a unique historical bond with Missouri Western. For the last 17 years, North Alabama's athletic department has been guided by a Griffon. Former UNA Athletic Director Mark Linder (2007-2021) served as MWSU AD from 2003-2007. Current UNA athletic director Dr. Josh Looney held the AD title at Western from 2017-2021.
The end of the Whitaker era in St. Joseph will begin a new chapter for one of Missouri Western's most storied athletic programs. With 13 NCAA Tournament appearances over a 30-year span, Griffon women's basketball has a long tradition of being led by elite-level coaches.
Now, coming off three straight 24+ win seasons, the program has been reestablished as a sustained MIAA power and national contender.
"I couldn't be more excited about the trajectory of our program," Carter said. "The stage is set for us to continue an upward trend. Coach Whitaker's legacy is now a valued part of our history, and our story is still being written. Consider this next chapter the start of our national search. We anticipate an elite-level pool of potential candidates. We will be diligent and deliberate in finding the right fit who will continue our momentum."
