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Stephanie Yelton

  • Women's Basketball Coach, UWF

Biography

Stephanie Lawrence Yelton has built a respected career in women’s basketball, first as a student-athlete at the University of North Carolina and later as a collegiate coach, including her leadership role at the University of West Florida (UWF). Her journey reflects a lifelong commitment to the game, player development, and building strong team cultures.

As a basketball player at the University of North Carolina, Yelton competed in one of the nation’s premier programs. Playing in the highly competitive Atlantic Coast Conference, she developed under a culture known for discipline, intensity, and championship expectations. As a guard, she was valued for her basketball IQ, defensive effort, and ability to contribute within a structured system. Being part of a nationally recognized program exposed her to high-level competition and postseason play, including winning two conference championships and the 1994 National Championship, experiences that would later influence her coaching philosophy. Her time at UNC helped shape her understanding of preparation, teamwork, and accountability—principles she carried into her professional life.

Following her playing career, Yelton transitioned into coaching, where she steadily built experience at the collegiate level at Charleston Southern University, Wake Forest University, Ohio University, and Boston College. Known for her work ethic and ability to connect with student-athletes, she earned opportunities to contribute in recruiting, player development, and game preparation. Her coaching style emphasizes fundamentals, defensive commitment, and academic responsibility, reflecting the standards she experienced as a player.

Currently at the University of West Florida, Yelton serves as the head women’s basketball coach, where she recently surpassed the 240-win mark, which makes her the winningest coach in men’s or women’s basketball history at UWF. Leading teams to the NCAA Division II and Gulf South Conference championships, she focuses on cultivating a culture of accountability, resilience, and steady improvement. Beyond wins and losses, Yelton prioritizes mentoring her players, ensuring they grow not only as athletes but also as students and leaders.

Throughout her career, Yelton has been recognized for her dedication to empowering young women through sport. She has served on the National Basketball Championships Committee and as a Board of Director for the Women’s Basketball Coaches Association. She has been named a Woman of Distinction by the Girl Scouts of America and a key influencer by the US Navy Blue Angels. Her experience as a player in a high-profile Division I program, combined with her leadership at UWF demonstrates her deep understanding of the game from multiple perspectives. Whether on the court as a Tar Heel or on the sidelines as a collegiate head coach, Stephanie Lawrence Yelton has consistently demonstrated passion, integrity, and a commitment to excellence in women’s basketball.