DENVER — MSU Denver women's basketball head coach Lynn Kennedy is stepping down after one season leading the Roadrunners program to accept a new opportunity as Athletic Director and Dean of Instruction for Kinesiology at Bakersfield College, the department announced Friday morning.
Kennedy's departure marks a career transition into athletic administration and provides an opportunity to return closer to family in his home state of California.
While his tenure in Denver lasted only one season, Kennedy made an immediate and lasting impact on the women's basketball program through his leadership, mentorship and commitment to student-athlete development.
Throughout the 2025-26 season, Kennedy helped establish a culture centered on accountability, growth and connection while guiding the Roadrunners through a year of continued progress on and off the court. His emphasis on player development and relationship building helped strengthen the foundation of the program and positioned the team for future success.
Kennedy led the Roadrunners to a 15-14 record in 2025-26 and clinched a berth to the RMAC Tournament for the first time since the 2022-23 season.
"My time at MSU Denver this past year was truly meaningful, both personally and professionally," Kennedy said. "It was an honor to work alongside dedicated student-athletes, supportive staff, and a program built on resilience, growth, and community."
Kennedy said watching the development of the student-athletes throughout the year became one of the most rewarding aspects of his coaching experience.
"Watching our players develop not only on the court, but also as leaders and individuals, was the most rewarding part of the season," Kennedy said. "I'm excited to watch the Roadrunners continue our success and build on the progress we made this year."
In addition to his work with the student-athletes, Kennedy expressed appreciation for the support he received throughout his time at MSU Denver.
"I am incredibly grateful for the relationships that were built and for the opportunity to lead this program," Kennedy said.
Kennedy leaves Denver to assume his new role overseeing athletics and academic programming in kinesiology at Bakersfield College, bringing with him decades of coaching and leadership experience at the collegiate level.
Although his time with the Roadrunners was brief, Kennedy's influence on the program was significant. His leadership helped foster growth throughout the roster while reinforcing the values and culture that continue to define MSU Denver women's basketball.
