Jacksonville University has agreed to a new long-term contract for head women’s basketball coach Special Jennings, the school announced Monday. The announcement comes after a historic ASUN Championship season under Jennings’ stewardship.
“We’re thrilled to have Coach Jennings at the helm of our women’s basketball program long into the future,” said Jacksonville senior vice president and athletic director Alex Ricker-Gilbert. “The program’s ascent over the last three years was clear, resulting in a historic championship run. The 2025-2026 season was a tremendous moment for our program and university, and we’re excited to continue building on this success under Coach Jennings’ leadership.”
Jennings has built the Dolphins into a premier program in the ASUN. She led Jacksonville to a 24-9 record this past season, matching the single-season wins record and leading JU to just its second-ever NCAA Tournament appearance.
“I’m thankful for the trust and support from Jacksonville University, and especially our Athletic Director, Alex Ricker-Gilbert,” Jennings said. “We’ve built something special here! We’ve built a culture rooted in accountability, belief, and excellence. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I’m excited to keep pushing this program forward for our players and for the city of Jacksonville.”
Jennings is the second-winningest coach in program history by win percentage, trailing only Yolett McPhee-McCuin. Jennings has improved her win total in each of her three seasons at the helm, culminating in a historic 2025-26 campaign.
Jacksonville rewrote the record book this past season. In addition to tying the single season wins record, the Dolphins reached 20 wins for the sixth time in school history. JU set new program records for points per game (72.3) and free throws made (605) in a season.
There were countless highlights along the way, including a nine-game winning streak — the second longest in school history — and the first win over a Power Four opponent since 2021. In the NCAA Tournament, Jacksonville earned a 15 seed, the highest seed in program history.
The Dolphins have recruited and developed elite players under Jennings’ watch. Over the last three seasons, Jacksonville has had four All-ASUN players including the first conference Player of the Year in school history, Priscilla Williams.
Another star brought in under Jennings’ tutelage is the reigning ASUN Freshman of the Year, Tatum Brown, the highest-ranked recruit in program history.
What They’re Saying
“Special is a star! She’s won everywhere, she’s had influence and there was no doubt in my mind that she would win at Jacksonville! Her contract is warranted especially with the success she’s had in this climate of athletics and I think this is only the beginning of her success there!”
Ole Miss and former Jacksonville head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin
“Special’s success comes as no surprise to those who know her. She balances toughness with a genuine care for her ladies. Since her playing days, she has been a fierce competitor with high IQ and that has translated to the sideline. Kudos to Jacksonville for the hiring and retaining of one of the best young head coaches in the country. Congratulations, Spesh! Keep rising!”
Cincinnati head coach Katrina Merriweather
Tagged with: ASUN
