Hall of Fame coach and Old Dominion Women’s Basketball legend Wendy Larry joins The Monarchists Podcast for a deep dive into her playing days, 27-year coaching career, and legacy with the Monarchs. From building a family-centered culture to recruiting internationally, battling Pat Summitt, and leading ODU to 17 straight conference championships, Coach Larry shares powerful stories of resilience, leadership, and love for the game. She also opens up about life after basketball, her thoughts on today’s NIL/transfer portal era, and her continued bond with former players.

Whether you’re a die-hard Monarch fan or simply love the history of women’s basketball, this conversation is packed with inspiration and history.

👍 Don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more Monarchs content!

⏱️ Chapters

00:00 – Intro & Welcome Coach Wendy Larry

01:00 – Choosing Old Dominion over William & Mary

04:00 – Early playing days & first women’s scholarships

06:00 – Mentors and transition into coaching

08:00 – Building culture & family at ODU

10:00 – Recruiting strategy & international players

14:00 – Coaching philosophy & leadership style

16:00 – Turning the program around after Year 1

17:30 – Memorable teams & big wins (Delaware & Elite Eight runs)

19:00 – Defending 17 straight championships

20:00 – Evolution of women’s basketball & transfer portal

21:00 – Players who embodied the program’s DNA

24:00 – Season planning & development approach

25:00 – Loudest arenas & best atmospheres

27:00 – Memories from The Fieldhouse

29:00 – Practice standards & Final Four story

33:00 – Rivalry & friendship with Pat Summitt

34:00 – How the women’s game has changed

36:00 – Scheduling games before the internet

38:00 – NIL and today’s challenges in college hoops

40:00 – Relationship with ODU since retirement

41:00 – Lessons players carried with them

42:00 – Life after coaching: grandkids, dogs, and staying connected

44:00 – Message to Monarch Nation

46:00 – Closing & farewell