University of Puget Sound

The 2024-25 season marks Casey Kushiyama’s eighth year as head coach of the University of Puget Sound women’s basketball team, where he has revitalized the Loggers into a dynamic NCAA Division III contender. This season, Kushiyama’s young squad ignited a remarkable winning streak, propelled by tenacious full-court defense and electrifying transition scoring, securing their return to the Northwest Conference (NWC) Tournament. Building on a 20-7 record in 2023-24, which included an NCAA tournament upset victory, the Loggers’ 2024-25 campaign showcases Kushiyama’s ability to mold a youthful roster into a cohesive, high-energy unit.

Kushiyama’s tenure is defined by transformative milestones. In 2021-22, he led the Loggers to their first 20-win season since 2016-17, earning the #2 seed in the NWC Tournament and weeks in national rankings. Four players received All-NWC honors, and Kennedy Brown was named NWC Freshman of the Year. In 2018-19, Jamie Lange earned NWC Player of the Year and was twice selected to the D3hoops.com All-West Region Team, while Elizabeth Prewitt secured First Team All-NWC and Third Team All-West Region honors. Kushiyama’s coaching philosophy, shared in his 2020 WSGBCA Clinic presentation, emphasizes “4 Pillars of Performance” and core values, fostering player ownership and a relentless team identity. His selective recruiting, highlighted by the 2024-25 class, prioritizes cultural fit and system compatibility, ensuring success at Puget Sound’s selective liberal arts institution.

A Hawaii native, Kushiyama’s NWC roots trace back to his days as a point guard at Linfield University, followed by roles as assistant and interim head coach for Linfield’s women’s team. His coaching resume includes stints at Whitworth (2008-09, NWC Tournament Champions, #7 nationally), George Fox (2011-12, NCAA national title game), and Whitman (2013-14, NCAA national runner-up), amassing a 9-3 NCAA tournament record. These experiences sharpened his ability to build competitive programs, evident in Puget Sound’s 2024 NWC Championship win over Pacific University (61-57).

Beyond the court, Kushiyama contributes to the basketball community as a member of the WBCA NCAA Division III Coaches Poll Committee and through clinics and podcasts, sharing insights on culture-driven success. He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Elementary Education from Linfield College and a Master’s in Teaching – Secondary Education (Health) from Grand Canyon University. Kushiyama resides in University Place with his wife, Lisa Kushiyama, Puget Sound’s Head Coach for Track & Field and Cross Country, and their sons, Kai and Keo.
Kushiyama’s vision—blending relentless defense, fast-paced offense, and values-driven leadership—positions the Loggers for sustained national prominence and prepares student-athletes for lifelong success.

Overall Coach Record at Puget Sound
(7 Seasons)