Mandy Pearson Appointed Head Coach of St. Thomas Tommies Women’s Basketball

On March 25, 2026, the University of St. Thomas announced that Mandy Pearson has been named the new head coach of the Tommies women’s basketball program. The appointment was made by Dr. Phil Esten, Vice President and Director of Athletics, marking a new chapter for the Summit League team.

Pearson brings extensive experience to the role, having previously served in various capacities within the athletic department. Her promotion reflects the university’s commitment to developing talent from within its ranks.

Coaching Staff Structure for 2025-26 Season

The 2025-26 women’s basketball coaching staff includes:

• Mandy Pearson – Head Coach
• Cam Holmes – Director of Basketball Operations
• CiCi Kieger – Assistant Coach
• Janay Morton – Assistant Coach

Support staff members contributing to the program’s success are Alli Barthel (Assistant Director of Strength and Conditioning), Kelsey Whaley (Director of Athletic Communications), Keturah Cox (Associate Director of Academic Support Services for Athletics), Cortez Robinson (Director of Equipment), Dr. Chrissy Holm Haider (Mental Health and Performance), Josh McKinney (Student Manager), and Kim Scott (Athletic Trainer).

About the St. Thomas Tommies Women’s Basketball Program

The St. Thomas Tommies women’s basketball team represents the University of St. Thomas in Saint Paul, Minnesota. The program competes in NCAA Division I as a member of the Summit League and plays its home games at Lee & Penny Anderson Arena, which has a capacity of 5,300 spectators.

The team’s history dates back to 1977, when it was founded following the college’s decision to admit women. Over the decades, the Tommies have built a legacy of success, including an NCAA Division III National Championship in 1991 and multiple Final Four appearances at that level.

In recent years, the program transitioned to NCAA Division I, making its debut in the 2021-22 season under head coach Ruth Sinn. The move to Division I has positioned the Tommies to compete against some of the nation’s top programs although maintaining their commitment to academic and athletic excellence.

Program Identity and Values

The Tommies are known for their distinctive purple and gray colors, symbolizing the university’s spirit and tradition. The program emphasizes discipline, teamwork, and perseverance — values that have been central to its identity since its inception.

Under Pearson’s leadership, the team aims to build on its recent progress in Division I while continuing to honor the strong foundation laid by previous coaches and players. The coaching staff is focused on player development, strategic game planning, and fostering a culture of accountability and growth.

As the 2025-26 season approaches, the St. Thomas Tommies women’s basketball program looks forward to competing in the Summit League and striving for success both on and off the court.