PISCATAWAY — Get ’em while they’re hot.
That was the basic message March 17 during the introductory news conference for the new coach of the Rutgers women’s basketball team.
Gary Redus II, hired two weeks ago after serving as an assistant coach at LSU, struck an upbeat tone as he addressed an enthusiastic gathering on the third floor of the Athletic Performance Center.
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The energy was evident immediately. The Rutgers band greeted Redus upon his arrival, along with cheerleaders. A scarlet carpet led him through a hallway lined with students cheering on both sides, joined by Scarlet Knight mascots and balloon displays at the gym entrance.
Crowds have been sparse at Jersey Mike’s Arena in recent seasons. Rutgers went 42-84 over the past four years under Coquese Washington, including a 1-17 Big Ten record this past season.
“I can’t wait to get started,” said Redus, a 2011 graduate of South Alabama. “Fans, both past and present, students and alumni, everybody in the area, get your season tickets now. Because soon, I’m telling you, there won’t be a lot of them available. We’re going to turn it around, and we’re going to do it quick.
Rutgers women’s basketball coach Gary Redus at his introductory press conference on March 17, 2026.
“Everybody wants to support a winner, and we plan on doing just that. I promise to make y’all proud. I have one simple question: Are you ready?”
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Redus has been an assistant coach at five colleges, including the past four seasons at traditional power LSU. The Tigers won the national championship in the 2022-23 season and are 27-5 this year. They have won more than 30 games in each of the past four seasons and have a 26-year streak of 20-win seasons.
Rutgers once enjoyed similar success.
More: Rutgers president praises players on College Basketball Crown: ‘Dogs that want to play’
C. Vivian Stringer finished her career with 535 wins at Rutgers and led the program to two Final Fours. Theresa Grentz, the program’s first coach, won 434 games and an NAIA national title. Both are members of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame.
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“I grew up on Rutgers basketball,” said Redus, who was raised in the South. “A lot of people have forgotten the storied history — Theresa Grentz, the Coyle twins, Sue Wicks, C. Vivian Stringer. I have to change the attitude about Rutgers women’s basketball.
“God never said a journey would be easy, but he did say the arrival would be worthwhile. This moment is just that. It’s a privilege and an honor to stand before you, and I want you to know I recognize that and will work diligently to reestablish Rutgers women’s basketball.”
Redus was hired by athletic director Keli Zinn, who joined Rutgers last month after working at LSU.
“Today is an exciting day for Rutgers athletics and the proud tradition of Rutgers women’s basketball and this university,” Zinn said. “Today we take the next step in that tradition. We needed someone who embraces the expectations that come with that. First and foremost, we wanted a coach with a competitive mindset, someone who understands that being at Rutgers means competing and winning against anyone in the country.
Rutgers women’s basketball coach Gary Redus, left, and Director of Athletics Keli Zinn at the press conference introducing Redus on March 17, 2026.
“Gary Redus embodies that mentality. He has built a national reputation as one of the most respected recruiters in the country. He is an outstanding teacher of the game who takes tremendous pride in helping players grow, not just in basketball but as young women preparing for the next stage of their lives.
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“Some might point out that Gary has spent his career as an assistant coach. But leadership is not defined by titles, and confidence isn’t defined by hierarchy. It’s defined by preparation, sound judgment, work ethic and the ability to get the job done. Gary Redus is ready for this opportunity.”
Redus said he is eager to cut down on frequent flyer miles and is looking forward to driving to more games in the Northeast.
While he has traveled extensively as an assistant coach, Redus said he is familiar with the talent in New Jersey, Philadelphia and New York City.
“I want to play fast. I want to get the ball moving,” he said. “I really want to space the floor and create ball movement.”
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Redus said he has already shared that philosophy with current players, watched film and emphasized the need for added toughness.
“I told them they have to bring a different attitude,” he said. “It’s not just about winning games, but winning big games and taking the next step and winning championships. Now I get to put that into practice, and that’s what I’m most excited about.”
That – and sellout crowds.
This article originally appeared on MyCentralJersey.com: Rutgers women’s basketball introduces Gary Redus as head coach
