LILBURN, Ga. - Cydni Cole, the Roanoke College women's basketball assistant coach, was named on Tuesday afternoon as one of the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA) Thirty Under 30 honorees for the 2025-26 season. 

Cole becomes the first Roanoke coach to receive this honor from the WBCA. 

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 past season was Cole's third with the Maroons. During her time in Salem, she has helped develop three All-ODAC honorees including the 2024-25 ODAC, d3hoops.com All-Region 6, and VaSID All-State Rookie of the Year, Paige Breuer. Prior to joining the Maroons, Cole spent time as an assistant coach at McKendree University and Webster University.

"Congratulations to Coach Cole," exclaimed head women's basketball coach Carla Flaherty. "Being named to the 30 Under 30 isn't just about age; it's about the impact made on the game. Coach Cole, your future is limitless. We are proud of you!" 

To learn more about the WBCA's Thirty for 30 program or to check out the rest of this year's class, click here.