Florida Gators Fire Women’s Basketball Coach Kelly Rae Finley

In a significant move for the University of Florida’s women’s basketball program, Kelly Rae Finley is out as head coach after five seasons. Finley first took over as interim head coach in 2021 and led the Gators to the NCAA Tournament in her first year.

But the team’s performance dropped off, and they couldn’t make it back to the tournament in the following seasons. Athletic Director Scott Stricklin now has to find the program’s third head coach during his tenure.

Kelly Rae Finley’s Tenure: A Rollercoaster Ride

Kelly Rae Finley started her journey with the Florida Gators under tough circumstances. She joined the staff in 2017 with former head coach Cam Newbauer and moved up to associate head coach in 2019.

When Newbauer resigned in July 2021 after allegations of verbal and emotional abuse, Finley stepped in as interim head coach. Despite the chaos, she led the Gators to a 21-11 season and their first NCAA Tournament appearance since 2016.

Highs and Lows

The 2021-22 season was definitely the high point for Finley. The Gators beat five ranked teams and even climbed to No. 15 in the country at one point.

But things never quite matched that peak again. The 2022-23 season ended at 19-15, and the team only made it to the quarterfinals of the WNIT.

Struggles and Challenges

Over the next two seasons, the Gators had a combined 35-34 record and just a 5-11 mark in SEC play. Even after a run to the WBIT semifinals, the team couldn’t really turn things around.

The 2025-26 season finished at 18-15, with another 5-11 SEC record. The Gators just couldn’t break through to the next level.

Notable Players and Performances

There were some bright spots. McDonald’s All-Americans Laila Reynolds, Liv McGill, and Me’Arah O’Neal all showed flashes of what could be.

McGill was second in the SEC in scoring with 22.8 points per game, and O’Neal made real progress in her second year. The team also notched their first regular-season ranked win since 2021-22, beating then-No. 17 Ole Miss.

The Search for a New Leader

With Finley gone, Scott Stricklin needs to find a new head coach for the Gators. This will be his third head coach hire and the 12th in the program’s history.

The University of Florida wants a women’s basketball program that consistently makes the NCAA Tournament and competes with the best in the SEC. There’s a lot riding on this next hire.

Expectations and Resources

Stricklin has made it clear: recruiting and developing student-athletes, building strong community ties, and raising the bar are all non-negotiable. Florida has the resources to support a successful program, no question about it.

The search will focus on finding someone who can deliver on those expectations and bring some energy back to the program.

Looking Back and Moving Forward

Finley’s time at Florida was a mix of challenges and some real highlights. Her first season as interim head coach showed her ability to steady the ship when things were rough.

Community and Support

Finley shared her gratitude for the chance to work alongside great coaches, staff, and boosters who supported the program. She thanked the administration for trusting her with Florida’s women’s basketball team over these past few years.

The Future of Florida Women’s Basketball

The University of Florida sits at a crossroads with its women’s basketball program. Whoever gets hired next will shape the team’s direction for years to come.

If they get the right leader, the Gators could absolutely get back to being a regular NCAA Tournament threat. It’s a big “if,” but the potential is there.

The University of Florida is starting its search for a new head coach. They’re aiming to build a stronger women’s basketball program.