GameDay Network

Kara Lawson: From Duke ACC Champion to Team USA Head Coach | She's In The Game

May 11, 2026
Kara Lawson led Duke to an ACC title while preparing to coach Team USA. Learn how she mentors rising stars and navigates her biggest challenge yet.
Kara Lawson has built an impressive career in basketball, from her breakout years at Tennessee in the mid-1990s to a successful WNBA playing career, followed by roles as a broadcaster and coach. This year, Lawson faced her most demanding workload yet, leading Duke to an ACC Championship while simultaneously preparing to serve as head coach of Team USA's women's basketball team. Lawson draws on her extensive experience to navigate challenging periods, emphasizing that understanding the ebb and flow of seasons is crucial for success. Having previously served as an assistant coach for the national team, Lawson was well-prepared for the head coaching role and had established relationships with veteran players like Chelsea Gray, Kelsey Plum, and Jackie Young. The women's national team is entering a period of transition, with emerging stars Angel Reese, Paige Bueckers, and Caitlin Clark participating in their first national team camp. Lawson praised the young players' intentionality and competitiveness, noting they demonstrated the approach required to compete at the national team level. From her departure from Duke in March to leading Team USA toward gold, Kara Lawson continues to prove she's ready for any challenge that comes her way.