Candice Dupree, a seven-time WNBA All-Star and proven leader at every level of the game, enters her third season as head coach of the Tennessee State University women’s basketball program in 2026–27. She was named the 13th head coach in program history by Director of Athletics Mikki Allen, ushering in a new era for Lady Tiger basketball.
Dupree arrived in Nashville following two seasons with the San Antonio Spurs, where she served as a player development coach and helped guide one of the NBA’s youngest rosters. During her tenure, she worked closely with rising stars including Victor Wembanyama, Jeremy Sochan, and Devin Vassell, while gaining valuable experience under legendary head coach Gregg Popovich. Her path to the NBA bench included participation in the league’s Coaching Development Program and a role at the NBA Draft Combine, where she led a team of top prospects.
Before transitioning to coaching, Dupree compiled a decorated 16-season career in the Women's National Basketball Association. Selected sixth overall in the 2006 WNBA Draft by the Chicago Sky, she went on to earn seven All-Star selections while playing in 494 career games. Dupree finished her career ranked among the league’s all-time leaders, including third in made field goals (2,842), fifth in scoring (6,895), fifth in games played, and seventh in rebounds (3,149).
A WNBA champion in 2014 with the Phoenix Mercury, Dupree played a pivotal role in a dominant Finals sweep, recording 24 points and six assists in the title-clinching game. She was a cornerstone of a historic Mercury squad alongside Diana Taurasi and Brittney Griner that posted a league-best 29–5 record. Her impact extended beyond the WNBA, earning a Hungarian League Championship in 2019 and multiple international gold medals with Team USA, including at the 2010 and 2014 FIBA World Cups.
Dupree’s basketball foundation was built at Temple University, where she starred from 2002–06 under Hall of Fame coach Dawn Staley. One of the most accomplished players in program history, Dupree led the Owls to three conference championships and a sustained national ranking presence. She earned Atlantic 10 Player of the Year honors twice, was named a Third Team All-American, and had her jersey retired—one of only two players in program history to receive that distinction. She remains among Temple’s all-time leaders in field goal percentage, scoring, rebounding, and blocked shots, and was inducted into the Temple Athletics Hall of Fame in 2016.
At TSU, Dupree continues to build on a program that has reached three consecutive Ohio Valley Conference Tournament appearances, bringing a championship mindset and a player-first development philosophy. Known for her commitment to holistic student-athlete growth, Dupree is focused on elevating the Lady Tigers both on and off the court while honoring the tradition and legacy of the program.
