NORTHAMPTON, MA. — Smith College is proud to announce that Lynn Hersey, head coach of the nationally ranked Smith basketball team, has been selected to the Maine Sports Hall of Fame Class of 2025.
Hersey played at Dexter Regional High School before continuing her playing career at Plymouth State University, where she was took the court for the Panthers.
Now having just completed her 18th season at the helm of the Smith College basketball program, Hersey has built the Smith into a national powerhouse, guiding the team to three consecutive NCAA Final Fours, including back-to-back appearances in the national championship game. Smith has claimed five NEWMAC Championships under her leadership and is currently riding a streak of three straight 30-win seasons.
Her achievements have been recognized at the highest level: Hersey was named the 2023 WBCA National Coach of the Year and has earned D3hoops.com National Coach of the Year honors in each of the last two seasons.
"Well, the State of Maine got it right...Lynn is a Hall of Famer for sure!" said Smith College Director of Athletics Kristin Hughes. "Really happy to see her being recognized by people outside of Smith for what we know her to be...an incredible coach, passionate leader and someone who relentlessly pursues excellence… a very proud Mainer as well! Huge congratulations to Lynn on receiving such a special honor."
Hersey added, "This recognition stems from the many talented coaches I have share a sideline with, the driven players I've had the privilege to coach, a Smith community that I'm grateful to be a part of, and my family which has believed in and supported by boldest basketball dreams. I'd like to thank the Maine Sports Hall of Fame for this incredible honor and congratulate the other inductees in the Class of 2025."
The Maine Sports Hall of Fame honors individuals who have brought distinction to the state through outstanding athletic achievement and contributions to the world of sports. Hersey joins an esteemed group of Maine natives who have made a lasting impact in their fields.
The induction ceremony will take place at The Gracie Theatre in Bangor, Maine on Sunday, September 21, 2025 and will be broadcast on delay by Maine Public Television.
For more information on Coach Lynn Hersey as well as the other inductees, please check out the Maine Sports Hall of Fame website.
About Smith Athletics: Smith College is a NCAA Division III member of the New England Women's and Men's Athletic Conference that sponsors 11 intercollegiate sports. For more information log on to smithpioneers.com and follow us on Facebook, and Instagram.
