Purcell gets contract extension
July 3, 2025 – Fresh off his second NCAA Tournament in three seasons at the helm of Mississippi State women’s basketball, Sam Purcell has signed a contract extension through the 2028-29 season, it was announced on Thursday.
“I would like to thank Dr. Mark Keenum and Director of Athletics Zac Selmon for their trust to build on the success we have had. I’m extremely excited to work with Zac as he continues to take our athletic department to new heights,” Purcell said. “I am blessed to be surrounded by an amazing staff and to coach great young women who represent their families, our program, the University and the state of Mississippi with pride. Life is about people, and my family and I could not be more excited to continue to call Starkville home and play in front of the best fans in women’s basketball inside The Hump. Hail State!”
Purcell has seen continued success during his young career as a head coach in Starkville. He has compiled 67 victories, with 24 of those coming in conference play, which are both program-bests for any coach through three seasons. He has guided the Bulldogs to three 20+ win seasons, making him the third active coach in the SEC and the first Bulldog coach to do such in their first three seasons.
Mississippi State returned to the NCAA Tournament for the 13th time in program history during the 2024-25 season. Purcell has led the Bulldogs to the tournament twice during his three seasons, earning three career NCAA Tournament victories.
