Texas State University has recently made a major change in their women’s basketball program. After 15 successful seasons, the university has decided to part ways with their winningest coach, Zenarae Antoine. This decision came after a disappointing 11-17 record, the worst winning percentage for the team since 2001. Antoine, who led the team to 5 postseason appearances, has decided to step away from the program. However, the university wasted no time in finding a replacement and has hired Chris Kielsmeier, who had a successful run at Cleveland State University.
Antoine’s departure from Texas State has left many fans and players shocked and saddened. She had been a part of the program since 2006 and had built a strong foundation for the team. Under her leadership, the team had achieved great success and had become a force to be reckoned with in the Sun Belt Conference. Her dedication and hard work had earned her the title of the winningest coach in program history, and her departure has left big shoes to fill.
But after a disappointing season, Antoine felt that it was time for her to move on. She stated, “I am grateful for the opportunity to have been a part of the Texas State family for the past 15 years. I am proud of what we have accomplished and the relationships I have built with my players and staff. However, I believe it is time for a new chapter in my coaching career.”
The university wasted no time in finding a replacement for Antoine and has hired Chris Kielsmeier as the new head coach for the women’s basketball team. Kielsmeier comes with an impressive resume, having led Cleveland State to their first-ever Horizon League Championship and NCAA Tournament appearance in 2021. He also has experience coaching at the Division I level, having previously coached at the University of South Dakota.
Kielsmeier is excited about the opportunity to lead the Texas State women’s basketball program. He stated, “I am honored and humbled to be the new head coach at Texas State. I have always admired the program and the success that Coach Antoine has achieved. I am looking forward to building on that success and taking the team to new heights.”
The hiring of Kielsmeier has been met with enthusiasm and excitement from the players and fans. His track record of success and experience at the Division I level make him the perfect candidate to lead the team. He has a proven ability to develop players and build winning teams, which is exactly what Texas State needs after a disappointing season.
The university’s athletic director, Larry Teis, expressed his confidence in Kielsmeier, stating, “We are thrilled to have Chris Kielsmeier as our new head coach. He brings a wealth of experience and success to our program, and we believe he is the right person to lead our team to new heights.”
Kielsmeier has already hit the ground running and is focused on building a strong team for the upcoming season. He has already started recruiting new players and is determined to bring in top talent to the program. He also plans to work closely with the current players and help them improve their skills and reach their full potential.
The Texas State women’s basketball team is in good hands with Chris Kielsmeier at the helm. His passion, dedication, and proven track record of success make him the perfect fit for the program. With his leadership, the team is sure to achieve great success in the upcoming seasons. The players and fans are excited to see what the future holds for the team under his guidance.
In conclusion, while it is sad to see Zenarae Antoine leave the program, the hiring of Chris Kielsmeier brings a new sense of excitement and optimism for the Texas State women’s basketball team. With his experience and determination, he is sure to lead the team to new heights and continue the legacy of success that Antoine had built. The future looks bright for the team, and the fans can’t wait to see what Kielsmeier and the players will achieve together.
