It's a new era in the nest for the Florida Gulf Coast University women's basketball team as the Eagles have a new head coach taking the reins.
Long-time head coach Karl Smesko announced on Wednesday that he is leaving the university for the WNBA's Atlanta Dream.
Smesko helped found the program 26 years ago, and has since built it into a perennial power.
However, the Eagles already have their new head coach ready to take charge and continue the winning ways with the Green and Blue.
Chelsea Lyles' FGCU journey began back in 2008. Before she was on the sidelines coaching, she was on the court at Alico Arena.
Lyles played under the guidance of Smesko from 2008 to 2010. The forward was a two-time All-ASUN First Team selectee and helped lead the Eagles to back-to-back WNIT Tournaments.
"I came here not knowing anything as a young junior in college," Lyles said.
That quickly changed. After graduating, Lyles climbed the FGCU coaching ladder - beginning as a student assistant, to recruiting coordinator, to associate head coach.
"I couldn't have dreamt it. This is a dream for me. I love this school. I love this university. I'm passionate about it," Lyles said.
When Smesko announced his departure, the choice was easy. Lyles is the new head coach for the FGCU women's basketball team.
"She was the first and only person on my list. She's a good human, she's a good person, she's an incredible teammate. So when you think about who you want to lead and succeed this program its Chelsea," said Director of Athletics Colin Hargis.
With the new title comes high expectations - something that Lyles isn't afraid of.
"The expectations are still the same. We're still stiving for excellence. We still have the same goals as we've always had. That does not change. My work ethic doesn't change and I am going to work harder to make sure they have a special season," Lyles added.
Related: Karl Smesko's top-5 wins with Florida Gulf Coast women's basketball
It may be a new era in the nest, but the goals are the same. Hoist some trophies, hang some banners and continue FGCU women's basketball's impeccable legacy.
"I'm very grateful for everyone who has supported me and gotten me to this point. I'm ready to take on this challenge," Lyles said.
Lyles has coached some games before, knowing that this day would eventually come. Smesko had her take the reins as the head coach for a couple of games in the 2023-24 season.
The first official game of the Lyles Era tips off on Sunday at 1 p.m. in Alico Arena.
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