UT-Tyler women's basketball coach Kevin Baker steps down

TYLER, TX (KLTV) - UT-Tyler Athletics Release

After three seasons as the head women's basketball coach at The University of Texas at Tyler, head coach Kevin Baker has resigned, effective April 22, 2015.

Baker had a stellar three-year combined record of 72-16, setting program-wins records in each season, winning 18 games in 2013-14, 27 games in 2013-14 and matching that mark this past season, going 27-3.

Baker's teams reached the NCAA Div. III postseason tournament the last two seasons, and reached the NCAA Div. III Sweet 16 in 2014 for the first time in program history.

“I would like to thank Dr. Patterson, Dr. Mabry, all the players, and all the supporters of UT Tyler Women's Basketball.

I have really enjoyed my time guiding this team and helping to put UT Tyler back on top as an elite program", commented Baker.

"I have no doubt that the current players on the roster are ready to take the program to even greater heights.

The cupboard is completely full and they are ready to make a run at their third straight ASC Championship.

I will be their biggest fan.

I love UT Tyler, the town, the community, and most of all, the players I had the honor to coach.”

"Coach Baker has exceeded every expectation I had of him and the program.

He was, without a doubt, the right person at the right time for women's basketball at UT Tyler, " said Dr. Howard Patterson, Vice President for Student Affairs.

Patterson continued, "His amazing record tells the story better than anyone else can.

He is a highly talented coach and I have no doubt that he will do great things in his career.

UT Tyler was fortunate to have him for the time it did and we wish him nothing but the best.

He has created some rather large shoes to full, but there is no doubt we will find another “Coach Baker” to continue the success of women's basketball at UT Tyler."