ASU Women’s Basketball Coach Charli Turner Thorne Expected To Step Down

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Arizona State women’s basketball coach Charli Turner Thorne announced that she is stepping down from the program. (Photo by Susan Wong/Cronkite News)

By Alex Coil

TEMPE – Arizona State women’s basketball coach Charli Turner Thorne is expected to announce at a press conference today that she will step down from her role after 25 seasons with the program.

When asked about the news, ASU athletic director Ray Anderson said, “You will find out more at 3 (p.m.). That should give you a hint.”

ASU’s was eliminated from the Pac-12 Tournament Wednesday following a 59-54 first-round loss to Oregon State.

Turner Thorne is the winningest coach in ASU women’s basketball history and holds the second most career wins in the Pac-12. Turner Thorne notably took a leave of absence during the 2011-12 season, citing the desire to regain life balance.

The program has not reached the NCAA Tournament since 2019, when the Sun Devils advanced to the Sweet 16. ASU advanced to five Sweet 16s and two Elite Eights during Turner Thorne’s tenure.

An official announcement from the university is expected to come out later Thursday afternoon. The Sun Devils finished with 12 wins this season and it is uncertain whether the team will participate in any postseason event.

Charli Turner Thorne set numerous program records in her 25 years at ASU.

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