Former Kentucky coach Kyra Elzy releases heartfelt statement after ouster

Only four days after Kentucky fell to Tennessee in the SEC Tournament, the school announced it was parting ways with head coach Kyra Elzy. On Tuesday, Elzy released a heartfelt statement, reflecting on the situation.

“As I embark on a new chapter in my life, I would be remiss not to reflect upon and be thankful for my journey,” Elzy wrote. “As I’ve had time to reflect, I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that Kentucky was the stop that helped me grow as a woman and as a coach. Through the triumphs and defeats, I gave Kentucky all of me! I’ll forever be grateful for the opportunity to be the head coach at UK. I’m a proud Kentucky girl through and through, and this place and all of the people and players will always hold a special place in my heart.

“Thank you, from the bottom of my heart, to all the players (past and present), coaches, support staff and everyone who poured into the program. At the end of the day, I understand that winning is the name of the game in this business. I will win again, that’s the competitor in me. I’m also a woman of faith. I know God always has a plan. For only He can open and close doors. I will continue to walk in God’s purpose. I’m built to last. Thank you Big Blue Nation for your love and support for this Kentucky girl. This chapter of my life is closing but a new one awaits.”

Kentucky women’s basketball finished with a 12-20 record this season and a 4-12 mark in conference play, finishing 12th in the SEC. In four years under Elzy, Kentucky recorded a 61-60 record. The team reached the NCAA Tournament in Elzy’s first two years but failed to receive an invite to the Big Dance the past two seasons.

Kyra Elzy’s crowning achievement in her four years at Kentucky came in the 2021-22 season when she led the ‘Cats on an improbable run through the SEC Tournament, highlighted by a triumph over No. 1 South Carolina to secure the SEC Crown.

Nonetheless, after Kentucky lost former No. 1 draft pick Rhyne Howard, Elzy failed to restock with the program with similar talent. Now, after four seasons with Elzy at the helm, Kentucky will search for a new leader for its women’s basketball program.