Coaching West Virginia women’s basketball from 2001-2022, Mike Carey accumulated a record of 447-239 while at WVU and is the all-time winningest coach in program history.
On March 16, 2022, Carey announced his retirement as the head coach of West Virginia women’s basketball.
“I think it was great he was recognized, and I definitely appreciate his efforts and what he’s done in women’s basketball so I’m happy that he was recognized for that,” UCF head coach Sytia Messer said.
On Oct. 4, 2023, it was announced that the native of Clarksburg, West Virginia would become an assistant coach for the UCF Knights women’s basketball team, reappearing in the Big 12.
“The players were excited. They wanted to stay out and watch and make sure we celebrate him. My players love Coach Carey. He’s a player’s coach so I’m happy they saw that part of him,” Messer added. “I know what he can do on the sidelines, and I was excited my players got to see what he’s done for women’s basketball.”
Returning home to where he made his successful coaching prowess, Carey was honored pregame in West Virginia’s eventual 84-43 win over UCF at home.
Carey’s Mountaineer teams made the NCAA tournament 11 times and he has sent 10 players WNBA during his time in Morgantown.
WVU also met with Carey and the Knights earlier this season in Orlando on Jan. 13, where they would win 76-59.
Before West Virginia, Carey served as an assistant during the 1987-1988 season for the men’s basketball team at his alma mater Salem before becoming head coach for the Tigers from 1988-2001.
Discover more from Blue Gold Sports
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
