Ben O’Brien Named Head Coach of Lafayette Women’s Basketball Program
On April 22, 2026, Lafayette College announced the appointment of Ben O’Brien as the modern head coach of its women’s basketball program. O’Brien brings a distinguished record from the University of Scranton, where he served as head coach for four seasons, compiling a 117-7 overall record and leading the Lady Royals to unprecedented success.
Proven Track Record at Scranton
During his tenure at Scranton, O’Brien achieved a remarkable .943 winning percentage, securing four consecutive Landmark Conference Championships from 2023 through 2026. His leadership guided the team to four straight NCAA Division III Tournament appearances, including three consecutive Elite Eight appearances from 2024 to 2026. The 2025-26 season marked a historic milestone as Scranton reached the program’s first NCAA Final Four since 2019 and advanced to the national championship game for the second time in school history.
O’Brien’s accomplishments extend beyond conference success. He made history as the fastest coach in men’s or women’s college basketball at any level to reach 100 career wins. He led the Lady Royals to a landmark victory as the first NCAA Division III women’s basketball team to defeat a Power 4 opponent, overcoming the University of Pittsburgh during the 2025-26 season.
Historic Appointment at Lafayette
O’Brien’s hiring represents a significant milestone for the Lafayette women’s basketball program. He becomes the eighth head coach in the program’s history since its inception in 1972 and the first male to hold the position. His appointment follows a national search process conducted by Lafayette’s athletic department.
Lafayette Director of Athletics Sherryta Freeman announced the hiring, emphasizing O’Brien’s proven ability to build competitive programs and develop student-athletes. The coach is set to be officially introduced at a press conference on Monday, April 27, 2026, as confirmed by multiple sources including Lafayette College Athletic Communications.
Personal Background and Family
O’Brien, 46, is married to his wife Mandy. Together they are parents to a daughter named Livvy and a son named Ben. The coach resides in the Lafayette area with his family as he prepares to embark on this new chapter with the Leopards.
Future Outlook for Lafayette Basketball
O’Brien has expressed his vision for transforming the Lafayette women’s basketball team into a consistent championship contender within the Patriot League. His immediate priorities include recruiting student-athletes who align with his program’s aspirations and enhancing the overall experience for players both on and off the court.
The athletic department views this hiring as a transformative phase for the program, citing O’Brien’s proven success trajectory and expectation for immediate impact. His goal is to establish Lafayette as a formidable presence in Patriot League competition although fostering growth and development for all student-athletes under his guidance.
Ben O’Brien Named Head Coach of Lafayette Women’s Basketball Program
On April 22, 2026, Lafayette College announced the appointment of Ben O’Brien as the new head coach of its women’s basketball program. O’Brien brings a distinguished record from the University of Scranton, where he served as head coach for four seasons, compiling a 117-7 overall record and leading the Lady Royals to unprecedented success.
Proven Track Record at Scranton
During his tenure at Scranton, O’Brien achieved a remarkable .943 winning percentage, securing four consecutive Landmark Conference Championships from 2023 through 2026. His leadership guided the team to four straight NCAA Division III Tournament appearances, including three consecutive Elite Eight appearances from 2024 to 2026. The 2025-26 season marked a historic milestone as Scranton reached the program’s first NCAA Final Four since 2019 and advanced to the national championship game for the second time in school history.
O’Brien’s accomplishments extend beyond conference success. He made history as the fastest coach in men’s or women’s college basketball at any level to reach 100 career wins. He led the Lady Royals to a landmark victory as the first NCAA Division III women’s basketball team to defeat a Power 4 opponent, overcoming the University of Pittsburgh during the 2025-26 season.
Historic Appointment at Lafayette
O’Brien’s hiring represents a significant milestone for the Lafayette women’s basketball program. He becomes the eighth head coach in the program’s history since its inception in 1972 and the first male to hold the position. His appointment follows a national search process conducted by Lafayette’s athletic department.
Lafayette Director of Athletics Sherryta Freeman announced the hiring, emphasizing O’Brien’s proven ability to build competitive programs and develop student-athletes. The coach is set to be officially introduced at a press conference on Monday, April 27, 2026, as confirmed by multiple sources including Lafayette College Athletic Communications.
Personal Background and Family
O’Brien, 46, is married to his wife Mandy. Together they are parents to a daughter named Livvy and a son named Ben. The coach resides in the Lafayette area with his family as he prepares to embark on this new chapter with the Leopards.
Future Outlook for Lafayette Basketball
O’Brien has expressed his vision for transforming the Lafayette women’s basketball team into a consistent championship contender within the Patriot League. His immediate priorities include recruiting student-athletes who align with his program’s aspirations and enhancing the overall experience for players both on and off the court.
The athletic department views this hiring as a transformative phase for the program, citing O’Brien’s proven success trajectory and expectation for immediate impact. His goal is to establish Lafayette as a formidable presence in Patriot League competition while fostering growth and development for all student-athletes under his guidance.
Sources: Lafayette College Athletics announcement (April 22, 2026), University of Scranton athletics records, The Times-Tribune (April 22, 2026), BVM Sports (April 22, 2026), WFMZ.com (April 22, 2026)