BUENA VISTA, Va. - Director of Athletics Josh Monsen has announced the hiring of Melanie Day as Southern Virginia University's next head coach for women's basketball.
Coach Day brings with her a rich history in the world of basketball as a player and coach. Most recently, she coached at Skyridge High School in Utah, spending time as an assistant coach and Bantam Director for the girls basketball program.
"My family and I are thrilled to become part of a community that values faith, integrity, and character. We look forward to investing in the lives of the student-athletes and building meaningful relationships throughout the university," said Day.
Before her stint at Skyridge, she was an assistant coach for the BYU women's basketball team from 2019-2022. There, she helped the Cougars to two NCAA tournament appearances, a WCC Regular Season title and 26 wins in 2021-22, the most in program history.
"Coach Day stood out as soon as we met," stated Monsen. "She has great knowledge of the game from playing and coaching at a high level. "More important is the type of person she is—we build student-athletes in more than just athletics."
In addition to a wealth of coaching experience, Day enjoyed a decorated playing career. After winning multiple state championships in California, she starred at UCLA for three years, helping the Bruins to a pair of twenty win seasons, a PAC-10 title in 1998, and an Elite 8 appearance a year later. After serving as a full-time missionary in Lisboa, Portugal, Day played one year for BYU and earned All-Mountain West 3rd Team honors; she completed her Bachelor of Science degree in 2003.
She becomes just the sixth head coach in SVU's storied history. Stepping into the role, she shared her desire to help the team excel both on and off the court.
"We want to compete for conference championships and postseason opportunities, but my vision extends far beyond wins and losses."
"I hope our student-athletes leave Southern Virginia as women of confidence and character—who lead in their families, careers, communities, and know they are valued not simply for what they contribute on the court, but for who they are as individuals."
She'll make the move to the Shenandoah Valley with her husband, Preston, and their three kids, Alli, Marley, and Fletcher. With Day at the helm, the Knights will look to defend their USA South title for a third successive year in 2027.
For the most up-to-date information and details on the team, visit knightathletics.com and follow @knightwbb on Instagram.