LITTLE ROCK — Kim Sitzmann is back where it all started. The former Trojan standout has joined Little Rock women's basketball as an assistant coach and director of player operations and development, returning to the program she helped build as a star guard from 2006-10.
"It's nostalgic for sure, learning everything again," Sitzmann said. "It's been 15 years since I've been on campus, so I've had to re-learn everything. I've loved it. The word I keep using is 'refreshing.'"
Sitzmann, 37, was officially added to Steve Wiedower's staff last week as the fall semester began. Wiedower, now in his second season as head coach after serving as longtime assistant to Joe Foley.
"We are very excited to add Kim to our coaching staff," Wiedower said. "She is a former player and is familiar with our coaches and playing style and will be a big asset to our players. She is from Arkansas and her ties around the state will be huge for our program in recruiting and relationships."
Sitzmann left her mark on Little Rock's record book, finishing her career in 2010 as the program's third-leading scorer (1,514 points). She remains the Trojans' all-time leader in 3-pointers made (215) and steals (243), and ranks second in assists (430). A three-time All-Sun Belt Conference pick, she was named the league's freshman of the year in 2007 and was honored on the program's 20th anniversary team in 2019.
She now joins former teammates Alicia Cash and Chastity Reed on Wiedower's staff. Sitzmann and Reed helped lead Little Rock to its first NCAA Tournament win in 2010, upsetting Georgia Tech in the opening round.
"I always hoped one day I'd coach [at Little Rock]," Sitzmann said. "There are a lot of coaches in this world, so for them to pick me, I am very grateful."
After playing professionally overseas, Sitzmann turned to coaching and teaching in Searcy. She guided the high school's girls basketball program to a 23-7 record and a Class 6A state tournament run in 2022. When Wiedower called with the opportunity to return home, she said the decision was easy.
"I've been there and done that. What [the players] are going through, I have lived it," Sitzmann said. "It's under Coach Wiedower, but it's the same system. That may be my biggest asset, knowing already how to do it."
Sitzmann said she hopes to one day become a head coach, maybe even at the professional level. For now, she's focused on helping Little Rock compete for an Ohio Valley Conference championship.
"I like that in college you can focus solely on basketball and not have to teach," she said. "That is my love, and I feel so fortunate to have this position at a place that means so much to me."
