Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Welcomes Pauline Love as Associate Head Coach
In a significant move for the program, Oklahoma women’s basketball has confirmed the hiring of Pauline Love as its new associate head coach, as announced via the university’s official Twitter account on May 8, 2025.
All you need is Love! Sooner Nation, help us welcome our new associate head coach, @Plove55! #BoomerSooner // @OU_Athletics
Coaching Experience and Achievements
Pauline Love arrives at Oklahoma with eight years of experience in the Southeastern Conference (SEC). Her previous roles include:
- Alabama (2024-2025): Served as the recruiting coordinator, contributing to a season that saw the Crimson Tide finish with a 24-8 record and advance to the NCAA Tournament’s second round.
- Arkansas (2017-2024): Worked as an assistant coach and recruiting coordinator. During her tenure, she helped the program make two NCAA Tournament appearances and successfully signed three McDonald’s All-Americans.
Additionally, Love coached three players who were selected in the 2025 WNBA Draft, solidifying her reputation as a developer of elite talent.
Reactions from Coaching Staff
Head coach Jennie Baranczyk expressed enthusiasm about Love joining the team, stating: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Pauline to the OU family. She brings tremendous experience from nearly a decade in the SEC, has a remarkable track record of developing elite talent and is widely regarded as one of the top recruiters in the country. What makes her truly special, though, is her ability to connect with student-athletes, staff, and everyone around her. Pauline’s passion for people and the game will elevate our program, and we can’t wait to get started with her here in Norman.”
Pauline Love’s Commitment
Expressing her excitement about this new chapter, Love stated: “I’m incredibly honored and excited to join the Oklahoma women’s basketball program. This is a special opportunity to be part of a tradition-rich program with high standards, strong leadership, and a clear vision for success. I’ve learned so much from the amazing coaches I’ve worked alongside, and I’m looking forward to continuing that growth under Coach Baranczyk.”
Transition in Coaching Staff
The addition of Pauline Love comes after the departure of former associate head coach Jonas Chatterton, who took the head coach position at San Jose State in April 2025. This strategic hiring marks a new era for the Oklahoma women’s basketball program as it looks to build on its recent success, including a Sweet 16 appearance in the latest season.
