The Kennesaw State women’s basketball team announced on Wednesday, Sept. 12, that former Seattle Storm center and University of West Virginia standout Lanay Montgomery would join the staff as an assistant coach.
Montgomery comes to KSU at a time when head coach Agnus Berenato seeks to continue the improvements she has overseen in the team. After struggling early on last season, the Owls won a few games before the holidays and continued to play close games even in losses.
The hiring of the former two-time, Big 12 All-Defensive team selection is a decision based not only on tactical knowledge but also leadership skills.
On the court, Montgomery set West Virginia’s all-time field goal percentage record at 59.6 percent. Off the court, she helped with flood relief efforts in West Virginia by helping others salvage personal belongings from their homes.
“I am very excited to have Lanay Montgomery on my staff at KSU,” Berenato said. “I am thrilled to have her on the court every day to teach my ladies post skills. Off the court, she has been involved in every aspect . . . making her the natural leader that earned her selection as captain twice while at West Virginia.”
The Pittsburgh, Pa. native made it to the professional level after being drafted by the Storm in the 2017 WNBA Draft. She was the first person from both her high school and AAU team to be drafted, as well as the third Mountaineer to be drafted in four years.
She finished her college career second in school history for blocks and fourth in conference history. Her senior season saw her team make it to the second round of the NCAA Tournament as she averaged nearly 11 points, nine rebounds, and three blocks per game.
“I am extremely grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this special KSU family,” Montgomery said. “Coach B is not only a great coach but a quality person. I love how she is all about women empowerment, building character and leadership off the court.”
She will be making her debut as an assistant coach in a little over a month as the women’s basketball team opens their season at home on Thursday, Nov. 1, against Thomas University.
