Hampton University’s women’s basketball program will bid farewell to a legend as Coach David Six announced his retirement after an illustrious 16-year tenure. Coach Six’s legacy is unparalleled, marked by an extraordinary dedication to the Lady Pirates that transcended mere wins and losses. The winningest coach in Lady Pirate history, Six’s Hampton teams posted an overall record of 264-185, won seven conference titles, and earned seven NCAA tournament berths.
In 2018, Six suffered a debilitating stroke and spent the summer at Baltimore’s Johns Hopkins Hospital undergoing treatment. This spring, Six will undergo additional treatment and rehabilitation physical therapy.
“I am deeply grateful for Coach Six’s immense contributions to our institution and women’s basketball program. His passion and enthusiasm infused our team with energy and purpose, elevating interest and success on the court.” Director of Athletics Anthony D. Henderson, Sr. stated. “Beyond his coaching achievements, Coach Six’s impact extends far beyond wins and losses. He prioritized his players’ personal and academic growth, leaving an indelible mark on our university community. In essence, Coach Six’s legacy is one of unwavering dedication and profound influence. I want to express my heartfelt thanks for everything he has done for Hampton University and our women’s basketball program.”
In his first season as head coach in 2008-09, Hampton finished with a 16-16 record. The Lady Pirates went on to win the MEAC championship seven of the next eight years and advance to the NCAA Tournament seven times. 2009-2014, the Lady Pirates averaged 25.4 victories, winning the league crown and earning an NCAA Tournament bid each season.
“My career at Hampton has been an incredible blessing. I am grateful to everyone who made the past 16 years the best of my life,” Six said. “It was an honor and a privilege to serve as Hampton’s head women’s basketball coach. I have been extremely fortunate to live the dream of doing what I love. My years at Hampton have left me with memories and relationships that will last a lifetime.”
His calling card was that his teams would play anyone. As head coach, Hampton played 44 Power 5 schools, nearly three a season. The Lady Pirates posted a 6-11 record against ACC competition, defeating Virginia Tech, North Carolina, Wake Forest, Pittsburgh, and Boston College (twice). Coach Six’s teams were 5-8 against SEC opposition, with victories over Alabama, Auburn, Mississippi State, LSU, and Florida.
Hampton suffered its first losing season under Six, a 4-11 mark in the COVID-19-shortened 2020-21 season. The Lady Pirates finished the 2023-24 season with a 3-26 record. Hampton wrestled with moves to more challenging, more competitive conferences. Hampton moved from the MEAC to the Big South in 2018 and then to the CAA in 2022.
Prior to accepting the head coaching position at Hampton, Six was a highly successful head coach at Hampton High School. In 14 seasons, Six’s teams won 331 games and state titles in 2001 and 2007. His teams won one regional title, ten regional appearances, five state Final Four appearances, nine district titles, and nine district tournament titles. At the same time, 30 of his players earned college basketball scholarships. Six was a two-time Virginia High School League Coaches Association (VHSCA) Coach of the Year and was named Associated Press Coach of the Year in 2007.
Despite his health challenges, Six’s courage and resilience earned him recognition and admiration from the basketball community, culminating in prestigious awards such as the USBWA Most Courageous Award and the Pat Summitt Most Courageous Award.
As David Six embarks on a new chapter in his life, his legacy at Hampton University will endure as a testament to his extraordinary leadership, unwavering commitment to excellence, and profound impact on the lives of countless players and colleagues.
Tagged with: CAA Hampton
