“It is with a heavy heart that I announce I am stepping down from Michigan State University due to health reasons,” Merchant said in a statement. “After much consideration and consultation with my health care providers, I have come to the difficult decision that it is in my best interest. I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the entire Michigan State community.”
Since joining MSU as head coach in 2007, the Traverse City, Michigan, native raked in 327 wins, two Big Ten titles and Big Ten Coach of the Year honors in 2011. She coached some of MSU’s most prolific scorers, including two-time All-American Aerial Powers, ’16; Spartans’ all-time leading scorer Tori Jankoska, ’16; and two-time All-Big Ten guard and Honorable Mention All-American Nia Clouden, ’21—all of whom went on to become WNBA first-round draft picks.
While it’s easy to tout her on-court achievements, Merchant’s legacy reaches far beyond the gym. In 2016, Merchant founded the empowHER leadership retreat. The retreat helps inspire young girls and give them skills to take on personal and professional challenges in life.
“I have had the privilege of coaching some of the most talented and dedicated young women in the country,” Merchant continued in the statement. “The opportunity to mentor, lead and empower young women has been the honor of a lifetime.”
FIVE FACTS FROM COACH MERCHANT’S CAREER
- 327-186 Record at MSU
- Two Big Ten titles (2011, 2014)
- Big Ten Coach of the Year (2011)
- Secured 10 NCAA Tournament Berths for MSU
- Recruited and Coached 52 All-Big Ten Players