Fairfield coach Carly Thibault-DuDonis, daughter of former NBA and WNBA coach Mike Thibault, has always had a deep passion for basketball. Growing up, she spent countless hours with her father, learning the game and asking questions that fueled her curiosity and love for the sport.
Thibault-DuDonis, now 32, is making a name for herself as the head coach of the Fairfield Stags women's basketball team. In just her second year at the helm, she has led the team to an impressive 22-1 record and a 20-game winning streak, putting them on the verge of entering the AP Top 25 for the first time in program history.
Under Thibault-DuDonis' leadership, the Stags have shown remarkable growth and success, with players like senior guard Janelle “Nellie” Brown praising her ability to connect with the team and foster a strong sense of camaraderie and chemistry on the court.
Thibault-DuDonis' coaching journey has been shaped by her experiences working with notable figures in women's basketball, including Lindsay Whalen and Brooke Wyckoff, who have served as mentors and role models for her. These experiences have helped her develop a people-oriented coaching style that prioritizes relationships and personal growth alongside on-court success.
Despite coaching in the shadow of powerhouse programs like UConn, Thibault-DuDonis and the Stags have garnered respect and admiration from the basketball community. Even UConn coach Geno Auriemma has taken notice of Fairfield's impressive performance, acknowledging the challenges of maintaining a 20-game winning streak and praising the team's accomplishments.
Thibault-DuDonis' impact extends beyond the basketball court, as she has proven to be a source of inspiration for her players and a driving force behind Fairfield's rise in the college basketball ranks. With her dedication, passion, and commitment to excellence, Thibault-DuDonis is setting a new standard for success in women's college basketball.
For more updates on AP Top 25 women's college basketball, visit here and here.
