Las Cruces, NM – Fresh Mexico State University Athletics announced today a change in leadership for its women’s basketball program, parting ways with head coach Jody Adams after four seasons. The decision, made by Director of Athletics Joe Fields, signals a proactive move to position the program for future success, according to a university statement.
The announcement comes after a challenging 2025-26 season for the Aggies, who finished with a 9-21 overall record and a 5-13 mark in Conference USA (CUSA). NM State concluded the season 11th in the CUSA standings and was eliminated from conference tournament contention following a 71-55 defeat to Sam Houston. This marked the fewest wins during Adams’ tenure with the program. The university is now initiating a search for a new head coach to lead the team forward.
Fields expressed gratitude for Adams’ contributions to the program and the positive impact she had on her student-athletes. “We are grateful for Coach Adams’ dedication and service to our student-athletes and to Aggie Athletics,” Fields said in a press release. “We appreciate the work she has put into the program and the positive impact she has had on many young women during her career and time at NM State.”
The university emphasized its commitment to continued growth and long-term success within the women’s basketball program. Fields stated the decision aligns with the department’s broader goals, focusing on competing for championships, ensuring student-athlete graduation, and maintaining a first-class organization that reflects the values of New Mexico State University. The department intends to move “swiftly and thoroughly” to identify a new leader who shares this vision.
Adams’ Tenure and Program Performance
Jody Adams was hired ahead of the 2022-23 season, bringing a wealth of experience to the Aggies. Prior to joining NM State, she served as an assistant coach at Southern Illinois from 2018-2022. Despite her efforts, the program struggled to achieve consistent success during her four-year tenure. The 2025-26 season represented a low point, with the team’s nine wins being the fewest recorded under her leadership. KTSM reports that the Aggies missed the CUSA Tournament this year.
Fields’ Vision for Aggie Women’s Basketball
Joe Fields, who assumed the role of NM State’s Athletic Director multiple weeks ago, according to MSN, has been focused on establishing a strong foundation for all Aggie athletic programs. His statement accompanying the coaching change underscored the department’s unwavering commitment to excellence. “Our vision for Aggie Women’s Basketball remains unwavering,” Fields affirmed. “We are fully committed to competing for championships, graduating our student-athletes and operating a first-class organization that embodies the values of New Mexico State University.”
Fields’ background includes experience in Athletics Director and Head Coach searches, as noted on the NM State Athletics website. This experience will likely be valuable as the department embarks on the search for Adams’ replacement.
The university has not yet announced a timeline for the selection of a new head coach, but indicated that updates will be provided as they grow available. Fans can discover complete coverage of NM State Women’s Basketball at NMStateSports.com, and can follow the team on Twitter (@NMStateWBB), Instagram (@NMStateWBB), and Facebook (NM State Women’s Basketball).
The search for a new leader will be critical as NM State looks to revitalize its women’s basketball program and achieve its stated goals of championship contention and academic success. The coming months will be pivotal in shaping the future of Aggie Women’s Basketball.
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