Legendary FGCU coach Karl Smesko leaves for WNBA's Atlanta Dream
Smesko led FGCU to unprecedented heights
Karl Smesko, the legendary coach who led FGCU to unprecedented heights, has announced his departure to become head coach of the WNBA's Atlanta Dream.
Smesko's departure marks the end of an era for FGCU women's basketball. He has been with the program since 2002 when it was still a Division II school, and he guided them to their first NCAA Tournament appearance in 2007. FGCU became a Division I program in 2012, and Smesko led them to their first NCAA Tournament win in 2013.
FGCU has been a regular in the NCAA Tournament under Smesko, making six appearances in the last eight years. They won the Atlantic Sun Conference tournament in 2018 and 2019 and reached the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in 2019.
Smesko's impact on FGCU
Smesko's impact on FGCU women's basketball is undeniable. He has been named the Atlantic Sun Conference Coach of the Year six times and has been honored as the WBCA Region 8 Coach of the Year three times.
- Under Smesko's leadership, FGCU has won six Atlantic Sun Conference regular season championships.
- They have won five Atlantic Sun Conference tournament championships.
- They have made six NCAA Tournament appearances.
- They reached the NCAA Tournament Sweet 16 in 2019.
Smesko's success on the court is only part of his legacy at FGCU. He has also been a mentor to his players, helping them to develop both on and off the court.
Smesko's departure a blow to FGCU
Smesko's departure is a blow to FGCU women's basketball, but it is also an opportunity for a new era to begin.
Smesko has left FGCU in excellent shape. The program is a perennial contender in the Atlantic Sun Conference, and he has recruited a talented group of players who are ready to take the next step.
FGCU will surely miss Smesko, but his legacy will live on. He has helped to build a powerhouse women's basketball program that is poised for continued success.
