LEXINGTON, Ky. - Kenny Brooks, the former head coach of the Virginia Tech women's basketball team, has been appointed as the ninth head coach of the University of Kentucky women's basketball program. The announcement was made by UK Athletics Director Mitch Barnhart on Tuesday.

With an impressive career record of 517-204 (.717) through 22 seasons as a head coach, Brooks brings a wealth of experience to the Wildcats. He has secured numerous accolades, including five Colonial Athletic Association Tournament titles, four CAA regular-season titles, one ACC Tournament title, one ACC regular-season title, 10 NCAA Tournament appearances, and a Final Four appearance.

During his tenure at Virginia Tech, Brooks led the team to eight consecutive winning seasons and four consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances. Under his guidance, the Hokies achieved their first-ever ACC regular-season championship in 2024 and secured a four seed in the NCAA Tournament. The team also reached the Final Four in 2023, marking another historic milestone for the program.

Barnhart expressed his excitement about bringing Brooks to the University of Kentucky, highlighting his track record in player development and championship success. Brooks' coaching excellence, combined with his vision for the program, made him an ideal choice for the Wildcats. The athletic department is looking forward to introducing Brooks and his family to the enthusiastic Big Blue Nation.

In addition to his coaching accomplishments, Brooks has been instrumental in developing top-tier student-athletes. At Virginia Tech, he mentored Elizabeth Kitley, who became the program's first 2,000-point scorer and set records for field goals, blocks, and double-doubles. Georgia Amoore, an All-ACC point guard, also thrived under Brooks' leadership and won multiple honors in the ACC Tournament and the NCAA Tournament.

Brooks' previous coaching achievements include a successful 14-season stint at James Madison University, where he became the winningest coach in school history. He led the Dukes to 11 consecutive postseason appearances, including six NCAA bids and five trips to the WNIT.

With his appointment at the University of Kentucky, Brooks aims to build a positive atmosphere, a winning environment, and a persistent program that will make the Big Blue Nation proud. He expressed gratitude to Virginia Tech for the memorable journey of his coaching career and is excited to embark on this new chapter in his life with the Wildcats.

The hiring of Kenny Brooks has generated excitement within the Kentucky basketball community as they anticipate witnessing his coaching prowess and leadership unfold on the court. The Wildcats are hopeful that under Brooks' guidance, the women's basketball program will reach new heights and achieve sustained success in the Southeastern Conference.

The hiring of Kenny Brooks is a clear indication of the University of Kentucky's commitment to developing a competitive and thriving women's basketball program. The Big Blue Nation eagerly awaits the upcoming season to see how Brooks' coaching expertise will translate into success for the Wildcats.