The Journey: Kelsi Musick takes next leap to Arkansas

On3’s Talia Goodman is showcasing women’s college basketball coaches taking over at new schools. This is the eighth edition of year two of the series – in which we’ll take a deeper look at some of the 60-plus coaches who took over new programs during a turbulent offseason. This time we learn more about Kelsi Musick, the new head coach at Arkansas.

Kelsi Musick bio

HOMETOWN: Canton, OK
EXPERIENCE: 2022–25: Oral Roberts (head coach), 2009-22: Southwestern Oklahoma State (head coach), 2008-09: Fresno State (assistant)
PLAYED: Cameron (1998-2002)

Why Arkansas?

After three seasons leading Oral Roberts, Musick felt it was the right moment to take the next leap in her career – and Fayetteville was the perfect fit.

“I was just ready for that next move,” Musick said. “Being at Oral Roberts was definitely a blessing, but I was ready for that next jump and that next move in my career. It’s close to Oklahoma, where I’m originally from, so I think it was the perfect move at the right time.”

The Razorbacks’ tradition sealed the deal. 

“They have a rich history,” she said. “The fans are extremely passionate. They love their Hogs. I love passion, I love energy, and I felt like Arkansas has that. In the rebuilding process, I’m excited for that opportunity, but I just love the passion, the energy and the loyalty that the fans have to the Razorback nation.”

Coaching philosophy and culture

Musick’s approach is built around three pillars: faith, family and fearlessness.

“That’s our culture,” she said. “We want to stay true to those pillars and to who we are. We run a high-octane offense in the dribble-drive. It’s going to be exciting not only for our players, but for our fans, as well.”

Though she’s only had the group for a short time, Musick has been encouraged by their passion and commitment.

“I love their energy and I love that they’re coachable,” she said. “They’re really just bringing back the passion and energy that they once had. They’ve really put in a lot of time on their own. That energy, passion and coachability have been three highlights from the summer.”

Something you may not know about Musick

Musick comes from tiny Canton, Oklahoma, with a population of about 500.

“There are literally more cattle than there are people,” she said with a laugh. “We don’t have a stoplight or a fast-food restaurant…My graduating class was about 28.”

That small-town connection runs deeper at Arkansas than fans might realize. 

“Sam Pittman actually went to school in my hometown until his junior year of high school,” Musick said. “His sister graduated with my dad…What are the odds that two coaches at the same university both came out of the same town?”