PROVIDENCE, R.I. – University of Southern Maine Associate Head Coach Shea Kimball will serve as interim head coach of the Huskies’ women’s basketball program for the 2026-27 season, as announced by Southern Maine Director of Athletics & Recreation John Sutyak. Kimball steps into the role as head coach David Chadbourne takes a leave of absence for the upcoming academic year.
Kimball has been a member of the Southern Maine coaching staff for the past four seasons and served as associate head coach during the Huskies’ historic 2025-26 campaign. During his time with the program, Kimball has played a significant role in recruiting and Southern Maine’s return to the top of the Little East Conference (LEC).
“Our goals, work ethic and team culture will remain the same,” said Kimball. “I am excited for this opportunity and to continue to work with this group and to continue the momentum of growth we want as a program. And, I know the players are ready to get going for the upcoming season as well.”
Southern Maine posted a 27-3 overall record and went 15-1 in LEC play last season, capturing both the conference regular season and tournament championships. The titles marked the Huskies’ 22nd LEC regular season championship and 21st tournament crown, while representing the program’s first conference championship season since 2012-13.
Kimball also gained head coaching experience during the Huskies’ postseason run, leading Southern Maine to an 80-57 victory over UMass Dartmouth in the LEC semifinals.
The Huskies went on to earn the LEC’s automatic berth in the NCAA Division III Women’s Basketball Championship, making their 27th appearance in the national tournament. Southern Maine advanced to the Sweet Sixteen for the first time since 2007.
The Huskies also collected numerous individual honors during the season. Guard Jaycie Christopher became the sixth Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) All-American in program history, while Christopher and Lucy Wiles earned D3hoops.com All-Region honors. Christopher, Wiles and Izzy Morelli also received postseason recognition from the Maine Women’s Basketball Coaches Association (MWBCA).
Chadbourne was named the 2026 LEC Coach of the Year after guiding Southern Maine through its championship season and expressed confidence in Kimball’s ability to lead the program during his absence.
“Shea has been instrumental in the growth and success of this program over the last four seasons, and Huskies’ women’s basketball will maintain its standard under his guidance,” said Chadbourne. “I’m grateful to be able to take this leave knowing that Shea will provide leadership and coaching at the highest level. I look forward to being back at Hill Gym and Fifield Court when ready.”
“Coach Chadbourne has our full support during his leave, and we are confident in the program’s leadership as the Huskies prepare for the upcoming season,” said Sutyak. “Our program remains in capable hands with Shea, as he has been an integral part of the program’s return to the top of the Little East Conference. We are excited for this season, while simultaneously wishing the best for Coach Chadbourne.”