Army West Point Athletics
Army’s Janelle Harrison Named WBCA Thirty Under 30
March 24, 2026 | Women's Basketball
ATLANTA – Army West Point women's basketball assistant coach and director of operations Janelle Harrison was named to the WBCA Thirty Under 30 list, the Women's Basketball Coaches Association announced on Tuesday.
Harrison joined Katie Kuester's staff prior to this season and handles the day-to-day operations of the program, which includes logistics, travel and a plethora of other items. In addition she plays a crucial role in player development for the Black Knights.
The WBCA Thirty Under 30 program was created to recognize 30 up-and-coming women's basketball coaches aged 30 and under at all levels of the game. Each honoree has exemplified their involvement in community service, mentorship and impact on others, professional manner, and attitude and professional association involvement.
"This is a tremendous honor for Janelle and beyond well deserved," Head Coach Katie Kuetser said. "Her work ethic and genuine care for everyone around her is what makes Janelle an amazing coach in our profession. We are so proud of Janelle and know she will continue to flourish for many years to come!"
Harrison has played an important role in Army's 25-win season. Under her guidance, Kya Smith was named Second Team All-Patriot League and has been a monster for Army this season, averaging 13.7 points and 10.5 rebounds. She was also named to the Patriot League All-Defensive Team. Also flourishing this season has been freshman Reganne Reardon, who was named to the Patriot League All-Rookie Team.
"Congratulations to these coaches who have distinguished themselves so early in their careers," said WBCA Executive Director Danielle Donehew. "The WBCA is pleased to recognize this up-and-coming talent in our coaching family. We celebrate their effort on the basketball court as teachers and equally applaud the extensive role they play in impacting the lives of their student-athletes.
Prior to her time at Post, Harrison served as an assistant coach at Bryant during the Bulldogs' first season in the America East Conference in 2022-23. She worked alongside current Stonehill assistant Marcus Reilly and was instrumental in post player development and recruiting under longtime head coach Mary Burke.
Harrison began her coaching career as Director of Basketball Operations at Hartford, her alma mater, during the 2021-22 season. She served under head coach Melissa Hodgdon in the America East Conference, managing daily operations and supporting all aspects of the program's logistics and planning.
Before entering the coaching profession, Harrison enjoyed a three-year professional playing career overseas, competing in Portugal, Lebanon, Puerto Rico, and Egypt. She graduated from Hartford in 2018 with a Bachelor of Arts degree in communication and later earned a Master of Business Administration in 2023.
As a player, Harrison was a standout for Hartford, serving as a two-year captain, earning two America East All-Defensive Team selections, and surpassing 1,000 career points and 500 rebounds. She was a key contributor to two America East Championship runner-up squads, earning All-Tournament Team honors as a senior. In the classroom, she was equally accomplished, earning America East Academic Cup honors and consistent placement on the Dean's List and President's List.
Army is back in action on Wednesday night as it takes on La Salle in the WNIT Super 16 at Christl Arena. Tipoff is set for 6 p.m. on ESPN+.
