Army West Point women’s basketball head coach Dave Magarity announced his intentions to retire following the conclusion of the 2020-21 season, it was announced Friday morning.
“I discussed my decision with my wife Rita and my family, as well as with Athletic Director Mike Buddie and my coaching staff this past summer,” Magarity said. “I felt after 47 years as a college coach it was the right time.”
Magarity’s tenure has been one of the best periods in Army’s women’s basketball history. Under his direction the team earned four postseason berths with a pair of NCAA Tournament and WNIT appearances.
“These past 16 years at West Point have been some of the most rewarding ones of my career. I’ve been blessed to have had the opportunity to be around unbelievable people in every area of this community as a head coach,” Magarity said.
Magarity is the Black Knights’ all-time wins leader with a record of 263-167 in 15 seasons as the head coach. Army has had nine winning seasons under his direction, with 11 players receiving all-Patriot League honors.
“Coach Magarity did more than win basketball games. He taught our women how to lead and excel at the highest levels. His players exhibited the values we expect at West Point and in the Army. His leadership will be missed and I wish him and his family well,” said Lt. Gen. Darryl Williams, 60th Superintendent of United States Military Academy.
Army West Point Director of Athletics Mike Buddie added, “We cannot thank Dave Magarity enough for everything he has done in his time at West Point. The program witnessed remarkable success on the court during his tenure, but more importantly he has played a vital role in developing leaders of character and helping prepare young women to be officers in the United States Army. I know I speak for everyone in the West Point community when I say that we will miss seeing him on the bench during games, but wish him the best in his retirement.”
Magarity first arrived at the banks of the Hudson prior to the 2005-06 season to serve as an associate head coach on Maggie Dixon’s staff. The Black Knights advanced to their first NCAA Tournament appearance at the Division-I level that season, finishing with a record of 20-11.
Coach Dixon tragically passed away at the young age of 28, shortly following the season’s conclusion. Magarity stayed on to become head coach during such a difficult time, beginning in the 2006-07 season.
Before arriving at West Point, Magarity spent numerous years coaching on the men’s side. From 1986-2004, he was the head coach at Marist, where he compiled a record of 253-258. Before that, he was the head coach of his alma mater St. Francis (Pa.), from 1978-83, where he was 60-76.
“There are so many people that have had a profound impact on my career,” Magarity said. “I can’t imagine surviving this challenging business for so long without the love and support of my wife and family.”
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