Northern State University head women’s basketball coach, Paula Krueger announced today the addition of Kelsie Kruger to the 2018-19 staff as the team’s assistant coach. Kruger joins the Wolves after two seasons as the assistant at Utah State University.
“I have known Kelsie for many years and have always been impressed with her passion for the game of basketball,” noted Krueger. “She brings a great amount of experience from coaching at both the Division I and Division II levels.”
In her two seasons with the Aggies, Kruger worked specifically with the post players, and was a key component to the Utah State recruiting effort. She coached 2017 all-conference performer Shannon Dufficy. Prior to her work at Utah State, Kruger spent the 2015-16 season as the women’s basketball operations coordinator at South Dakota State University. The Jackrabbits won the Summit League Conference Tournament, and advanced to the second round of the NCAA Tournament.
“I’d like to thank Athletic Director, Josh Moon and head coach, Paula Krueger for the opportunity to join the rich tradition of Northern State women’s basketball,” explained Kruger. “I look forward to being able to contribute to continued success in the new era of the program.”
Kruger began her career as the basketball and volleyball graduate assistant at Iowa Lakes Community College. The Lakers volleyball team advanced to the NJCAA Tournament in November of 2011 and finished fifth nationally.
“She is a solid teacher of the game with a tremendous work ethic and I am very excited to add Kelsie as my assistant coach,” added Krueger. “She is not only a great addition to the basketball program, but Northern State University and the community of Aberdeen.”
She returned to her alma-mater as an assistant coach in the spring of 2012 and spent one season at Adams State, before moving on to California State University, East Bay. In her two seasons with the Pioneers, Kruger coached five CCAA All-Conference players in Tori Breshers, Stephanie Lopez (2-time), Brianna Terrance, and Danielle Peacon. Stephanie Lopez was named the Daktronics All-West Region Player of the Year in 2015.
“I’ve known coach [Krueger] for many years – playing against her in the RMAC, working her camps and seeing her out on the recruiting trail and I look forward to contributing to continued success,” Kruger continued. “Aberdeen is a special community, one that loves and supports women’s basketball and I’m looking forward to being a part of Wolves Country!”
Kruger played collegiately at Adams State University, graduating with a Bachelor of Arts in Sports Administration in May of 2011. The Grizzlies advanced to the NCAA Region Tournament in 2010 and the NCAA Sweet Sixteen in 2011. In her senior campaign, Kruger was named to the RMAC All-Conference team.
Photo Courtesy Northern State Athletics
