ALBANY, N.Y. - The University at Albany women's basketball program and head coach Colleen Mullen have announced the hiring of assistant coach, Michelle Holmes.
 
"We are thrilled to welcome Michelle to the Great Dane family," said head coach Colleen Mullen. "Her experience as both a standout player and coach at American brings tremendous value to our program. As a highly accomplished post player, she will be a great asset to our frontcourt development."
 
Michelle Holmes comes to the Great Danes after three seasons with American University. While at American, Holmes led the on-court development for the post players. Her involvement led to the success of All-Rookie Cecilia Kay and a second team all-conference selection for Emily Johns. 
 
"I'm excited to join Coach Mullen's staff," said Michelle Holmes. "She and the staff have been welcoming from day one. Their genuine care for the holistic development of the players has stood out to me. She has built a strong culture at UAlbany which has led to success on and off the court and I am excited to help build on that success."
 
In addition to her responsibilities on the court, Holmes coordinated team community service events and organized alumni events which increased engagement among former players and supporters of the program. Also acting as the liaison for housing and academic services, she focused on providing players with the resources and support important to their success.
 
Prior to coaching, Holmes began her career in research from 2016-18. She spent the next four years working for the federal government before returning to her alma mater to coach.
 
During her time as a student-athlete, she led American to its first Patriot League Championship in 2015. She was named to both the Patriot League Third Team and All-Tournament Team after leading the team with 220 rebounds (6.7 per game), which ranks sixth all-time in a single season. Holmes holds the AU record for single-season field-goal percentage (.643) from her sophomore season and ranks third all-time in career field-goal percentage (.535). Her 556 career rebounds ranks 16th all-time.
 
A native of Toledo, Ohio, Holmes graduated from American with a Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and a minor in public health in 2016.
 
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