Kara Lawson is the head women’s basketball coach at Duke University and one of the most accomplished leaders in the game. A former standout player, Lawson starred at the University legendary coach Pat Summitt. She went on to enjoy a 13-year WNBA career, earning a reputation as an elite shooter and cerebral guard, and won a WNBA championship with the Sacramento Monarchs in 2005.
Lawson has made a lasting impact on the international stage as well. She won an Olympic gold medal as a player with USA Basketball at the 2008 Beijing Games and later led the U.S. 3×3 Women’s National Team to gold as head coach at the 2021 Tokyo Olympics, as well as serving as an assistant coach for the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she captured a third Olympic gold medal. She is also set to coach the U.S. Women’s National Team at the 2026 World Cup and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, further cementing her legacy on the world stage.
Before joining Duke, Lawson served as an NBA assistant coach with the Boston Celtics and worked as a respected basketball analyst. Known for her emphasis on leadership, accountability, and culture, Lawson brings a modern, purpose-driven approach to coaching.
