Jackson State University announced in June that Wyketha Harrell has joined the women’s basketball coaching staff as an assistant coach, according to head coach Margaret Richards.
Richards praised Harrell’s experience and leadership, citing her patience, growth-oriented approach, and ability to connect with young players as key assets for the program.
Harrell previously served as head coach at Southwest Baptist University for three seasons, leading the team to its largest conference victory since 1999 and earning multiple individual and team academic awards. During her tenure, the Bearcats defeated rival Drury University for the first time since 2017 and achieved a three-game winning streak early in the season.
Prior to Southwest Baptist, Harrell was an associate head coach at the University of New Orleans for eight seasons. There, she helped the Privateers set school records, including most conference wins in a season and the longest home winning streak. She also contributed to recruiting the highly rated 2020 class and developed several standout players, including Southland Conference award winners.
Harrell’s coaching career began with assistant roles at the University of Missouri-Kansas City, Missouri Southern State University and Garden City Community College. At UMKC, she helped guide the team to its first postseason appearance and a historic 22-11 record in 2012. Her efforts extended to academic success, with numerous players earning academic honors.
As a player, Harrell competed at Missouri Southern State University and Rockhurst University, earning accolades and helping her teams improve their records. She holds a bachelor’s degree in psychology from Missouri Southern and a master’s in sport administration from Kent State University, earned in 2021.
Harrell is also involved in community and professional organizations, including the Women’s Sports Foundation, NACWAA, WBCA, and BCA. She resides in Kansas City with her son, Elijah Harrell-Lee.
