Buffalo women’s hoops program hires former player Kristen Sharkey to replace Becky Burke

By Canadian Press on April 18, 2025.

BUFFALO, N.Y. (AP) — The University of Buffalo has hired Kristen Sharkey as women’s basketball coach.

Sharkey was hired Friday to replace Becky Burke, who left for Arizona after leading the Bulls to a school-record 30 wins and the WNIT title.

Sharkey, a former Buffalo player and assistant coach, was on Syracuse’s staff the past three seasons.

She was an All-Mid American Conference player for the Bulls. In seven seasons as an assistant coach, she helped Buffalo earn four NCAA Tournament bids and reach the Sweet 16 in 2018.

“I stepped onto this campus 15 years ago not knowing the impact this special place would have on my life,” Sharkey said. “Now, it is my turn to help these young women achieve their dreams and reach their highest potential both on the court and in the classroom.”

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The Associated Press