Rutgers taps Redus to lead women’s basketball program

Rutgers University hired Gary Redus II as the new head coach of its women’s basketball program. Athletic Director Keli Zinn announced the appointment March 9.

Redus brings championship experience, spending the past four seasons as an assistant at Louisiana State University. During his tenure at LSU, he helped the Tigers win their first national championship in 2023.

Redus replaces Coquese Washington. The university fired Washington March 2 after four seasons leading the Scarlet Knights. The coach finished her tenure with a 42–84 overall record and an 11–61 mark in Big Ten Conference play.

At LSU, Redus worked under head coach Kim Mulkey. He helped the program reach national prominence, including that 2023 NCAA championship as well as multiple deep postseason runs. He also helped LSU land several top-ranked recruiting classes, earning recognition as one of the top recruiters in women’s college basketball.

The hire also reconnects Redus with former LSU colleagues. Zinn previously served as executive deputy athletic director at LSU. Meanwhile, Rutgers President William Tate IV served as LSU president. Both joined Rutgers leadership last year.

A new era On The Banks

Gary Redus II has been named the next head coach of Rutgers Women’s Basketball

: https://t.co/UEuM57Vpc3#GoRU | #RUWBB pic.twitter.com/mQYWOsNeRe

— Rutgers Women’s Basketball (@RutgersWBB) March 9, 2026

Restoring tradition, reenergizing the base

“We are thrilled to welcome Gary and his family to Rutgers,” said Zinn. “Having worked with him previously, I’ve seen firsthand the energy, commitment, and competitive mindset he brings to coaching. Coach Redus is well known as one of the top recruiters in the country, with an exceptional ability to create relationships and attract elite talent. He is an outstanding teacher of the game with a reputation for developing student-athletes to reach their fullest potential.”

“I am honored and grateful for the opportunity to be the next women’s basketball coach at Rutgers University,” said Redus. “I am no stranger to the rich history of basketball here at Rutgers and I look forward to building on that legacy as we move the program forward.

“I’d like to thank Keli and President Tate for their vote of confidence in me and the vision we share for the future of this program. My family and I are extremely excited to fully immerse ourselves in this community and work tirelessly to elevate our women’s basketball program back to an elite level.”

Zinn added, “Coach Redus knows what it takes to build and sustain a championship program, and I’m confident he will restore the proud tradition of Rutgers women’s basketball and reenergize our passionate fan base.”