SWOOPES’ TRANSITION FROM SUPERSTAR TO HEAD COACH (VIDEO)

Sheryl Swoopes' shouts defensive instructions vs. Western Michigan University.

By Benji Cohen

The transition from a basketball superstar player to a college head coach has been relatively smooth, according to Sheryl Swoopes. No matter what the record indicates.

Swoopes, 44, often called the “Michael Jordan of women’s basketball,” is in her third season coaching  Loyola University’s women’s basketball team, a program that has “no tradition,” Swoopes said.

The three-time WNBA MVP’s record in her first two seasons  was 17-46.

“It’s difficult when you are trying to change the culture of a program, because you need to get people that are going to buy in to what you’re saying and what you’re doing,” Swoopes said.

Swoopes’competitiveness and resume have allowed her to recruit the type of players Loyola couldn’t attract in the past.

“I do feel like this freshmen class, in my opinion, is probably the best freshmen class Loyola has ever had,” Swoopes said.

There are seven new players on the roster this year, five freshmen and two transfers.

The Ramblers’ record this season is 2-5. The team’s next game is home on Dec. 13 at Gentile Arena against Northwestern University.

Photo at top: Sheryl Swoopes’ shouts defensive instructions vs. Western Michigan University. (Benji Cohen/Medill)