DeLAND, Fla. — After 18 remarkable seasons leading the Stetson University women's basketball program, head coach Lynn Bria has announced she will step away from her coaching position at the conclusion of the current season.
 
One of the most influential figures in program history, Bria has guided the program to three conference championships, two NCAA Tournament appearances, 12 winning seasons and 12 total trips to postseason competition, including this season's appearance in the National Women's Invitation Tournament, while mentoring generations of student-athletes who have excelled both on the court and in the classroom.
 
"Thank you, Stetson! What an incredible ride it's been," said Bria, who has compiled a 318-251 (.559) record since taking over the Stetson women's basketball program in 2008-09.  "After 18 years, it's time to move on to something new. I'm proud of the program we've built based on passion, resilience, and the incredible commitment of the student-athletes who have worn the Stetson jersey.
 
"I'm deeply grateful for everyone who has been part of this journey and for the countless moments that made it so special. Thank you to my administration, both former and current, staff, fans, and the DeLand community for being such an important part of this era.
 
"Most importantly, thank you to all my players. It has been an honor to coach, mentor, and compete alongside so many remarkable young women. You all have made everything worth it. The milestones reached, memories made and relationships built here will always mean a great deal to me and my entire family. It's been an honor and a privilege to be your coach. From the bottom of my heart, I love each and every one of you!! THANK YOU!"
 
Under Bria's leadership, the Hatters women's basketball program has become synonymous with achieving competitive success while maintaining the values and ideals that embody the historic institution. Her impact extends far beyond wins and championships, shaping a program defined by resilience, academic excellence, and community engagement.
 
"While I am saddened to see her go, I fully respect Coach Bria's decision to begin a new chapter," said Director of Athletics Ricky Ray. "She has been a joy to work with during my first two years at Stetson. She leaves behind an incredible legacy of championships, outstanding alumni, successful coaches, and a campus community that deeply appreciates her. Our women's basketball program is in a great place because of the foundation she built.
 
"On a personal level, she has also been a mentor to me as I began my time at Stetson, and I will miss our postgame chalk talks! On behalf of the Hatters, we thank her for everything she has done and congratulate her as she begins this next chapter."
 
Bria arrived in DeLand following 13 seasons as a head coach at Texas Women's University, UCF and Ohio University.  She also spent time as an assistant coach at Marshall, Radford, West Virginia and Miami.
 
In her 31 seasons as a head coach, she compiled a 471-464 (.504) overall record.  When she was appointed at NCAA Division II TWU, Bria was the fourth-youngest head coach in the country.
 
A native of Charleston, West Virgina, she attended the University of Charleston and was inducted into the school's Athletic Hall of Fame in 2003.  Her jersey was retired at her alma mater, Charleston (W.V.) High School.