Valdosta State's Director of Athletics has announced that former assistant coach Chandler Merkerson will be returning to lead the Lady Blazers women's basketball team, following the departure of the previous head coach, Deandra Schirmer. Merkerson expressed her excitement at the opportunity and her eagerness to continue the program's winning tradition.

By the Numbers
  • Merkerson was on staff for the Lady Blazers from 2017-2019, helping lead the team to the Sweet Sixteen in 2018 and a Gulf South Conference runner-up finish in 2019.
  • At Samford University, she helped lead the team to Southern Conference regular season titles in 2020 and 2021, a tournament title in 2020, and a WNIT appearance in 2021.
  • In 2022, she was honored as a WBCA Thirty Under 30 and was named Assistant Coach of the Year by the Samford Athletic Department.
State of Play
  • Chandler Merkerson will be introduced as the new head coach of the Lady Blazers on Wednesday, April 24, 2024, at 3 p.m., in the University Center Theater.
  • The press conference is open to the public and will be streamed live on www.blazersportsmedia.com.
Bottom Line

Chandler Merkerson's return as the head coach brings promise and a winning legacy to the Lady Blazers women's basketball team, with her previous experience and accolades setting the stage for continued success under her leadership.