The University of South Carolina women’s basketball program has announced the hiring of Winston Gandy as an assistant coach, filling the vacancy left by Fred Chmiel, who departed to become the head coach at Bowling Green. Gandy brings a wealth of experience from both collegiate and professional basketball.
Coaching Background
Gandy’s coaching journey began at the University of Maryland, where he served as the director of recruiting operations for the women’s basketball team. He then transitioned to the NBA, spending three seasons with the Washington Wizards as the coordinator of player development. During his tenure, he worked with notable players such as John Wall and Bradley Beal.
Following his NBA experience, Gandy returned to college basketball, serving as an assistant coach at Rice University for three seasons. He played a pivotal role in leading the Owls to multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and Conference USA titles. In 2020, he joined Duke University as an assistant coach, where he was later promoted to associate head coach. Under his guidance, Duke achieved a 14-4 record in the ACC and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
Impact on South Carolina
Head coach Dawn Staley expressed enthusiasm about Gandy’s addition to the staff, highlighting his ability to connect with players and his basketball acumen. “He is a highly sought after young talent in our game, and I’m so happy he is bringing his great basketball mind and ability to recruit and develop talent to Columbia,” Staley stated.
Gandy’s appointment is seen as a strategic move to maintain the program’s high standards and continue its success on the national stage. His diverse background and proven track record are expected to contribute significantly to the development of the Gamecocks’ players and the overall success of the team.
Looking Ahead
With Gandy now on board, South Carolina’s coaching staff is poised to build on its legacy of excellence. The program remains a formidable force in women’s college basketball, and Gandy’s expertise is anticipated to play a crucial role in its continued success.
