Nikki Blue Joins USC Women's Basketball Staff as Assistant Coach

Nikki Blue, a former assistant coach for the Los Angeles Sparks and interim head coach for the Phoenix Mercury, has joined the USC women's basketball coaching staff under head coach Lindsay Gottlieb. Blue brings significant professional experience, having coached at both the WNBA and collegiate levels, including stints at UNLV, Cal State Bakersfield, Grand Canyon, and Arizona State. Gottlieb emphasized Blue's pro experience and her value in mentoring elite players aspiring to professional careers, as well as her strong character and basketball knowledge. Blue, who was a standout guard at UCLA and played five seasons in the WNBA, expressed her excitement about joining a program with a strong tradition and working alongside Gottlieb. The hire is part of USC's effort to strengthen its staff with professionals who can develop players both on and off the court. Blue's extensive playing and coaching background is expected to add to the team's culture and competitive trajectory.