What Iowa State's new AD is looking for in a women's basketball coach
New Iowa State AD Jared Benko will have to find a replacement for longtime women's basketball coach Bill Fennelly, who will retire after this season.
AMES – Iowa State’s new Director of Athletics, Jared Benko, is already aware of one major hire he will have to make: finding a new women's basketball coach to replace Bill Fennelly. Fennelly will retire after the 2026-27 season. Benko, introduced to the public on October 19, praised Fennelly’s legacy, stating that the program he built is incredible.
Fennelly is one of the most successful coaches in Iowa State history, having led the Cyclones to two Elite Eight appearances, three Big 12 Tournament titles, and one regular-season conference crown. The university announced on October 12 that Fennelly’s final season will be the upcoming one. Benko, who begins his role on October 30, now has a significant opening to fill.
According to Benko, he is looking for a coach who is willing to put in the work and can build a roster while demonstrating they can win. He emphasized that past success is the best indicator of future success. With Fennelly boasting 656 wins throughout his coaching career and guiding Iowa State to the postseason 24 times, the job is certainly appealing. Benko anticipates a high number of strong applicants for the position.
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