THIS MATTERS
On defense, we’re focused on limiting our opponent’s shot and being tough at all times. On offense, we are going to push the ball up the court and play fast. It’s going to be an exciting team.” WVU WOMEN’S BASKETBALL COACH DAWN PLITZUWEIT
The Social Side of the Game Part of the WVU women’s basketball team’s infectious personality involves the ubiquitous presence of social media combined with recent NCAA changes that allow for student athletes to be compensated financially for name, image, and likeness contracts and endorsements. All of the players have Instagram accounts, and some have signed NIL deals to promote themselves regionally and nationally. “In our day and age, it is important for student athletes to know themselves—to learn about their brand, grow their brand, and share their brand,” says Plitzuweit, who has her own IG account where she posts regularly—and privately—for her 900-plus followers. The WVU Women’s Basketball official Facebook page is especially active, with recent posts including a Mean Girls – inspired parody involving the team, humorous Pictionary sketches, and scenes from the team’s September 29 first official practice.
Plitzuweit signed to a five-year contract in March worth $3 million, not including incentives, starting with a base salary of $550,000 for the 2022–23 season. Then she got to work with her new players. “This team has an incredible personality. They are fun. They are hungry,” she says. “I am seeing a lot of individual player growth.” The university’s rabid athletic fan base has embraced the change. “I’m really intrigued to see how the women’s team evolves this upcoming season with Coach Dawn,” says Eva Smith, a civil engineering major at WVU. “I really hope that this change will draw much needed attention, funding, broadcasting, coverage, and pride to this team of amazing women." The opportunity for the coach and team extends beyond the court, students believe. “Sports are everywhere on this campus, but
you don’t see much love for them outside of men's football and basketball,” says Connor Gibbons, a WVU journalism major and avid basketball fan who hopes Plitzuweit's arrival will shift some focus to another exciting and deserving team. Coach Dawn, who turned 50 this Halloween, brings strong experience to Morgantown and a lot of great coaching years to come. She and her husband, Jay, have a son, A.J., who plays basketball for South Dakota and was All-Summit League First Teamer in 2020–21. Their daughter, Lexi, plays basketball for Grand Valley State in Michigan. The whole family has quickly developed an affection for the city on the banks of the Monongahela. “It’s such a great feeling that our kids already call it home,” Plitzuweit says. written by david gignilliat
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