Texas Longhorn Head Coach Vic Schaefer Named SEC Coach of the Year

AUSTIN — Texas Longhorns head coach Vic Schaefer has been named the SEC Coach of the Year for the fourth time in his career, following an outstanding performance in his first season leading the Longhorns. Schaefer, who joined Texas ahead of the 2023-24 season, guided the team to a remarkable 15-1 record in SEC play, securing a share of the conference’s regular season title.

Schaefer’s exceptional leadership has been a driving force behind the team’s success, and his efforts were recognized by his peers across the SEC. The honor marks his fourth career Coach of the Year award, cementing his place as one of the top coaches in women’s college basketball.

“I think Coach of the Year is a great indication of great players and having a great staff,” Schaefer said following the announcement. “When you have great players and you have a great staff, that thing gets done a whole lot easier and a whole lot more often, and so I’m honored that our coaches in the league voted that way. It’s not something that I take lightly. I’m very proud, but again, I’m smart enough to know y’all, you can’t do it by yourself.”

Schaefer’s humility shines through as he acknowledges that his individual success is tied to the talent of his players and the dedication of his coaching staff. However, despite his accolades, Schaefer remains focused on what lies ahead. With the SEC tournament and the NCAA tournament on the horizon, he is determined to lead the Longhorns to their ultimate goal: a national championship.

While Schaefer is pleased with the team’s achievements, he remains laser-focused on the next step. “This is what happens when you just put your head down and you go to work,” Schaefer explained. “You don’t worry about anything, but trying to win the next game, win the next day, win the next practice, you look up on March 4, and this is where you are.”

In addition to his SEC Coach of the Year honor, Schaefer was also named the USA Today Sports Coach of the Year. Despite the individual recognition, Schaefer insists that the work is far from finished. The Longhorns are now preparing for the SEC tournament in Greenville, where they will compete for the chance to solidify their position heading into the NCAA tournament.

Schaefer gave his team two days off to rest and recharge before heading to Greenville for their next challenge. As the Longhorns look to add more hardware to their collection, Schaefer’s leadership will undoubtedly continue to be a key factor in their quest for a national championship.