Jessica Richardson has been a key figure in the continued rise of Central Washington University’s women’s basketball program, entering her seventh season on staff in 2025–26 and first as Associate Head Coach following her promotion in May 2025. Since joining the Wildcats in 2019, she has played an integral role in player development and team success, contributing to multiple NCAA Division II Tournament appearances and a historic Sweet 16 run in the 2024–25 season. That campaign saw CWU finish 23–8 overall and 14–4 in GNAC play, with standout individual performances from several all-conference and All-American players under her guidance.
Before arriving at Central Washington, Richardson spent two seasons as a graduate assistant at Southern Utah University, where she had previously completed a successful collegiate playing career. A forward for the Thunderbirds from 2013 to 2017, she developed into one of the program’s top performers, finishing her career with 982 points and ranking among the school’s leaders in rebounding and field goal percentage. She later gained professional playing experience overseas and transitioned into coaching, bringing firsthand knowledge of high-level competition to her role. Known for her strong emphasis on player growth and performance, Richardson has helped mentor national award winners and all-conference honorees while contributing to CWU’s sustained competitiveness within the GNAC.
