In a recent candid interview, Memphis women’s basketball coach Alex Simmons shed light on the burgeoning popularity of women’s basketball and shared her vision for the future of the sport.
Reflecting on the growth in media coverage and fandom, Simmons acknowledged the long-standing talent and personalities that have defined women’s basketball.
“I think obviously, we’ve always known women’s basketball has been an entity. But not as many people then (were) paying attention to it now,” Simmons said, highlighting the sport’s increased visibility and recognition in recent years.
Simmons herself has been a significant contributor to the sport’s evolution, both as a player and a coach. During her playing days at the University of Tennessee under the legendary coach Pat Summitt, Simmons was part of a golden era for women’s college basketball.
From 2004 to 2009, she competed in three Final Fours and won two national titles, experiences that ingrained in her a deep understanding of high-level competition and fandom in women’s basketball.
As she now leads the Memphis women’s basketball program, Simmons is focused on sustaining and building upon the current momentum.
She stressed on the importance of strategic planning and leveraging opportunities to elevate the program further.
A crucial element in her strategy is the substantial investment from FedEx into the athletic department.
This backing has provided Simmons with the resources and confidence to aim higher and think bigger for the future of the program.
“FedEx’s investment has been a game-changer for us,” Simmons said. “It allows us to improve facilities, recruit top talent, and provide our players with the best possible experience. This support not only benefits our team but also helps in growing the fan base and increasing the visibility of women’s basketball.”
Simmons is committed to fostering a culture of excellence and innovation. She believes that with continued support and strategic initiatives, women’s basketball at Memphis can reach new heights and inspire future generations of athletes and fans.
As the sport continues to thrive, Simmons remains optimistic about its future.
She is determined to ensure that women’s basketball at Memphis not only rides the current wave of popularity but also sets new standards for success and influence in the years to come.
