Former UCLA Gymnastics Coach Valorie Kondos Field Inspires Women’s Basketball Team

The UCLA women’s basketball team has found an unexpected source of inspiration this season in former gymnastics coach Valorie Kondos Field, also known as Miss Val. Kondos Field, who led the gymnastics program to seven national championships, is now co-teaching a Philosophy of Coaching and Leadership class at UCLA, where she has made a significant impact on players like Charisma Osborne and Camryn Brown.

Osborne and Brown, who are both part of the Transformational Coaching and Leadership masters program, have embraced Kondos Field’s coaching techniques and leadership philosophy. The class, which is discussion-based and draws on Kondos Field’s coaching experience, has challenged the players to think critically about leadership and motivation.

Kondos Field’s influence extends beyond the classroom, as she recently spoke to the women’s basketball team on Selection Sunday to motivate them for the NCAA Tournament. She shared her experiences of leading the gymnastics program to success and taught the players dance choreography, creating a fun and unified team bonding experience.

Osborne, who has been personally impacted by Kondos Field’s teachings, spoke about the importance of being true to oneself and stepping out of one’s comfort zone. The UCLA women’s basketball team, fueled by Kondos Field’s wisdom and guidance, is now on a historic NCAA Tournament run, with Osborne leading the charge.

The bond between UCLA student-athletes, coaches, and alumni has been strengthened by Kondos Field’s presence, with players like Osborne and Brown embodying the values of leadership and teamwork instilled in them by Miss Val. As the women’s basketball team continues their journey in the NCAA Tournament, they carry with them the lessons learned from a legendary coach who has left an indelible mark on their season.