PHOENIX — Grand Canyon University (GCU) has officially named Winston Gandy as its new head coach, marking a major hire for the program. Gandy, who most recently served as an assistant coach at South Carolina, brings an impressive resume that spans both college basketball and the NBA.
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Bringing in a national championship resume to GCU. ????
Welcome to Phoenix, @CoachGandy! pic.twitter.com/vNhJd5ufqr
— GCU Women's Basketball (@GCU_WBB) March 24, 2025
Gandy’s coaching journey has been defined by success at every stop. He began his career at Maryland as the director of recruiting during the Terrapins’ 2014 Final Four run before moving to the NBA, where he worked in player development for the Washington Wizards, contributing to their 2015 and 2017 playoff appearances.
He later transitioned back to the college ranks, serving as an associate head coach at Rice and helping guide the team to an NCAA Tournament berth. From 2020-2023, he was an associate head coach at Duke, where he played a key role in the Blue Devils’ run to the 2023 NCAA Round of 32. Most recently, he was on staff at South Carolina, helping the Gamecocks win the 2024 national championship.
At his introductory press conference, Gandy expressed gratitude and excitement for the opportunity.. “This was kind of a no-brainer for me,” Gandy said. “I think there is another level this program can go to with the leadership we have here… their vision is forward-minded.”
Gandy’s hiring drew praise from South Carolina head coach Dawn Staley, who saw firsthand the impact he made with the Gamecocks.
“Winston is one of the hardest workers and best recruiters in our sport,” Staley said. “He genuinely cares about players and builds real relationships. I have no doubt he’ll do a fantastic job at GCU, and I can’t wait to watch him thrive as a head coach.”
Gandy replaces Molly Miller, who led GCU to multiple postseason appearances before departing for Arizona State. The Lopes have emerged as a growing force in college basketball, making the NCAA Tournament and building a reputation as a program on the rise.
With his extensive experience at both the collegiate and professional levels, Gandy is set to bring a new energy to GCU basketball as the program looks to elevate to even greater heights.
ASU hires Molly Miller to be next women’s basketball head coach
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Reporter Reyna Stanley covers the Phoenix Mercury and more for Burn City Sports. You can follow her on X @rey_stanley776.
