SAD NEWS: Auburn Women’s Basketball Head Coach Johnnie Harris Let Go After Four Seasons
In a decision that has sent ripples through the college basketball community, Auburn University announced that Johnnie Harris, head coach of the women’s basketball team, has been relieved of her duties after four seasons at the helm. The move comes following a cumulative record of 58-63 during her tenure, as the Tigers struggled to find consistent success under her leadership.
Harris, who was hired in April 2021 to replace longtime coach Terri Williams-Flournoy, came to Auburn with a wealth of experience, having served as an assistant coach under Vic Schaefer at Mississippi State and Texas. Her arrival brought hope and excitement to a program looking for revival. However, despite early signs of promise and flashes of potential, the Tigers were unable to make a significant impact in the highly competitive Southeastern Conference (SEC).
The 2024–25 season proved to be the tipping point, as the Tigers finished with a losing record and missed the NCAA Tournament for the fourth consecutive year. Although Harris was praised for her recruiting abilities and her player development skills, the lack of postseason success and inconsistency on the court ultimately led to the university’s decision to part ways.
In a statement released by Auburn’s athletic department, Athletic Director John Cohen expressed gratitude for Harris’s commitment and service to the program. “Coach Harris has poured her heart and soul into Auburn women’s basketball,” Cohen said. “We appreciate her dedication and the effort she put into building this program. This was not an easy decision, but we believe it is necessary as we look toward a new direction and future success.”
The announcement was met with mixed emotions from players, fans, and alumni. Many former players took to social media to express their support for Harris, describing her as a mentor, motivator, and a positive force in their lives. “Coach JH believed in me when no one else did,” wrote one former player. “She’s more than a coach—she’s family.”
Despite the disappointing results on the court, Harris’s tenure was marked by significant efforts to build a strong team culture and improve the overall program infrastructure. She spearheaded several community outreach initiatives and was a vocal advocate for her players, emphasizing their growth both on and off the court.
As the search begins for a new head coach, Auburn finds itself at a crossroads. The program will need to regroup and find a leader capable of not only competing in the SEC but also reinvigorating a fan base eager for success. For now, Assistant Coach Fred Williams will serve as the interim head coach while the university conducts a nationwide search for Harris’s successor.
While Harris’s departure marks a sad moment for Auburn women’s basketball, her influence and legacy—particularly her efforts to uplift and inspire young athletes—will not be forgotten. Wherever her next chapter takes her, Johnnie Harris will carry with her the respect and admiration of many in the basketball world.