an Diego State women’s basketball head coach Beth Burns has retired, SDSU athletics director Jim Sterk announced today.

"My 16 years at San Diego State University have been remarkable," Burns said. "I am so appreciative of the many people who have supported our program throughout this time. I have had the privilege of coaching many terrific young women and will continue to enjoy following their successes. I would also like to give a special thank you to all of my associate and assistant coaches and staff who have given their hearts to make Aztec basketball great. Thank you, San Diego."

The winningest coach in Aztec women’s basketball history, Burns compiled a 295-186 overall record in two eight-year stints at SDSU, leading the Aztecs to six regular-season conference championships and four league tournament titles. In addition, SDSU qualified for the NCAA tournament on seven occasions during Burns’ tenure, highlighted by a Sweet 16 appearance in 2010.

Under Burns’ guidance, SDSU boasted 20 first-team all-league selections, 16 all-academic conference picks, seven All-America honorees and four league player-of-the-year award winners.

During the 2012-13 campaign, Burns directed San Diego State to a 27-7 overall record, setting a program record for most victories in a single season en route to its second consecutive Mountain West Conference regular-season title. For her efforts, Burns was named MW Coach of the Year for the second straight season, marking the sixth time in her career she has garnered conference coaching accolades.

"Beth Burns has elevated the women’s basketball program to a level where it competes for championships on an annual basis," Sterk said. "The San Diego State community appreciates her hard work and dedication over the years in making the Aztecs a consistent winner. We will begin a national search for her replacement immediately."

In the meantime, associate head coach Jualeah Woods will serve as interim head coach.