Norman, OK – July 4, 2025 — In a powerful and emotional move that reconnects a dynasty with its greatest icon, the University of Oklahoma has officially announced that Courtney Paris, the most decorated player in the history of Sooners women’s basketball, is returning to Norman — this time as the General Manager of the program.
The announcement came Thursday morning as head coach Jennie Baranczyk and OU Athletic Director Joe Castiglione revealed the groundbreaking hire in a packed press conference at Lloyd Noble Center. The return of the woman long known as the “Court Queen” and the undisputed GOAT (Greatest of All Time) signals a bold new era for Oklahoma women’s basketball — rooted in legacy, leadership, and national ambition.
🏀 Courtney Paris: The GOAT Returns to Lead
Courtney Paris’ name is etched in both Sooner history and NCAA legend. From 2005 to 2009, she was an unstoppable force on the court — setting records for rebounds, double-doubles, and consistency never seen before or since. Her dominance brought national recognition to Oklahoma women’s basketball and helped establish the program as one of the most respected in the country.
Now, she brings that same drive, vision, and winning mentality back to the program — not as a player, but as the architect of its future.
“I’ve worn the jersey. I’ve bled Sooner crimson. And now I’m honored to build the next generation of champions,” Paris said during her introduction. “This isn’t just a job. It’s home. And it’s time to raise the bar again.”
📋 Role as General Manager – A First in Program History
The hiring of a General Manager in women’s college basketball — especially a former star player — represents a progressive step by the Sooners, embracing the evolving landscape of the sport.
Paris will serve as the lead strategist off the court, with responsibilities including:
•Overseeing player development programs
•Managing NIL and brand-building efforts for athletes
•Coordinating recruiting strategy and national scouting
•Alumni engagement and mentorship pipelines
•Leadership in academic and career readiness initiatives
•Serving as a direct bridge between players and university leadership
With college athletics entering a new era of player empowerment, NIL influence, and increased visibility, Paris’s role is expected to be transformational in elevating Oklahoma’s program into a top-tier destination for elite female athletes.
🎙️ Jennie Baranczyk on Paris’ Return
Oklahoma head coach Jennie Baranczyk, now entering her fourth season at the helm, couldn’t contain her enthusiasm.
“Courtney Paris isn’t just returning. She’s redefining what’s possible,” Baranczyk said. “Her legacy as a player is untouchable, but what excites me more is what she’ll bring as a leader, mentor, and visionary. This is a championship move for our program.”
Baranczyk and Paris are expected to work closely to build a modern powerhouse — one that not only competes in the Big 12 but contends on the national stage year in and year out.
🏆 A Legacy Unlike Any Other
Courtney Paris left OU with one of the most historic careers in NCAA history:
•4× First-Team All-American (first in history)
•2007 AP National Player of the Year
•2,729 points and 2,034 rebounds (NCAA records)
•112 career double-doubles (NCAA record)
•Led the Sooners to a Final Four and multiple Big 12 titles
•Jersey #3 retired by the university
After her WNBA career and coaching stops at Arkansas and Stanford, her return to Norman completes a full-circle journey — from legend to leader.
🎉 Fan and Alumni Reaction
The OU community erupted with excitement on social media and beyond, celebrating Paris’ return not just as a feel-good moment, but as a turning point for the program.
“This is how you build a dynasty — you bring the GOAT home.”
“Court Queen back in Norman? Oklahoma just became elite again.”
“The legacy continues — and the future is bright.”
🏀 What’s Next?
With Courtney Paris now installed as General Manager and a top recruiting class on the horizon, all eyes are on Norman. The Sooners are building a program that blends tradition, innovation, and star power — and Paris is set to be at the heart of it.
Her message to players and fans was clear:
“We’ve been great before. We will be great again. And this time — we’re building something even bigger.”
The Court Queen has returned. Not just as a symbol — but as the architect of a new era.
Oklahoma Women’s Basketball just entered a bold new chapter. And the GOAT is writing it herself.
