In a move that signals a new era of excellence for the North Carolina Central University (NCCU) women's basketball program, the Department of Athletics has announced the permanent appointment of Terrence Baxter as the head coach. Baxter, who previously served as the interim head coach, has proven himself to be a transformative leader, guiding the Eagles to their first winning season since rejoining the MEAC in 2011-12.

Unlocking the Potential of NCCU Women's Basketball

A Proven Winner and Exceptional Recruiter

Terrence Baxter's track record of success and his ability to identify and develop top talent have made him the ideal choice to lead the NCCU women's basketball program. During his time as an assistant coach, Baxter coached two consecutive MEAC Rookie of the Year award winners, Diamond Thomas and Jerni Kiaku, showcasing his keen eye for talent and his skill in nurturing young players. His contributions to the program's success have been undeniable, as evidenced by the team's record-breaking 15-win season in 2022-23, a new high in the program's NCAA Division I era.

Elevating the Eagles to New Heights

Baxter's impact as the interim head coach during the 2023-24 season was immediate and profound. Under his leadership, the Eagles achieved a 16-15 overall record, marking the program's first winning season since rejoining the MEAC. The team's 9-5 conference record tied the program's modern-era MEAC victories, earning them the No. 3 seed in the 2024 MEAC Basketball Tournament and a spot in the semifinal round for the second time.

A Wealth of Experience and Accolades

Baxter's coaching journey has been marked by a deep understanding of the game and a commitment to excellence. Prior to joining NCCU, he spent 14 years coaching within the state of North Carolina, including a successful stint at Catawba College, where he led the women's basketball program to five winning seasons and a NCAA Division II Southeast Regional Tournament appearance. Baxter's accomplishments have been recognized with his induction into the Pfeiffer University Hall of Fame in 2017, where he was a two-time all-conference performer and helped the Falcons to a pair of league titles and one Sweet 16 appearance.

Building a Winning Culture

Baxter's appointment as the permanent head coach of the NCCU women's basketball program signals a renewed commitment to excellence and a belief in his ability to cultivate a winning culture. With his proven track record, exceptional recruiting skills, and a deep understanding of the game, Baxter is poised to take the Eagles to new heights, solidifying their position as a force to be reckoned with in the MEAC and beyond.

Embracing the Future with Confidence

The NCCU community is thrilled to have Terrence Baxter at the helm of the women's basketball program. His unwavering dedication, strategic vision, and ability to inspire his players have already made a significant impact, and the future looks brighter than ever for the Eagles. As they embark on the 2024-25 campaign, the NCCU faithful can look forward to witnessing the continued growth and success of a program that is now firmly under the guidance of a proven leader.