Women's Basketball | 4/17/2026 8:00:00 AM

DOVER, DE – Delaware State University is thrilled to announce the appointment of Khadijah Rushdan as the new Head Coach of the Women's Basketball Team. A celebrated figure in Delaware basketball, Rushdan brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record of success both as a player and a coach.
Khadijah Rushdan, a legendary high school player at St. Elizabeth's School in Wilmington, Delaware, is renowned for her exceptional skills and competitive spirit. During her time at St. Elizabeth's, she led her team to a state championship and earned numerous accolades, solidifying her status as one of the top players in Delaware high school history. Her remarkable talent and dedication to the game earned her a scholarship to Rutgers University, where she played under the guidance of the Hall of Fame coach, Vivian Stringer.  
Career High School Highlights at St. Elizabeth

• Scoring Record: Graduated as the state's all-time leading scorer with 2,464 career points (a record later surpassed by Elena Delle Donne).
• Individual Honors: Named Delaware State Player of the Year three times (2004, 2006, 2007).
• Varsity Career: Played five seasons of varsity basketball, starting as an eighth grader - becoming the state's first five-time first-team All-State selection

At Rutgers, Rushdan had a historic collegiate career, contributing significantly to the team's success in the Big Ten Conference. She was known for her tenacity on the court, leadership, and commitment to excellence, helping the Scarlet Knights reach the NCAA Tournament multiple times. Her time at Rutgers not only honed her skills as a player but also instilled in her a deep understanding of the game, which she has carried into her coaching career.
 
Following her graduation, Rushdan transitioned into coaching, where she has continued to make an impact. Most recently, she served as the Assistant Coach and Recruiting Coordinator at Marquette University, where she played a pivotal role in developing players and enhancing the program's recruiting efforts. Her ability to connect with student-athletes and her strategic approach to coaching have garnered respect from peers and players alike.
 
"We are excited to welcome Khadijah Rushdan back to Delaware as our new Head Coach," said Tony Tucker, Athletic Director at Delaware State University and a member of the Delaware Basketball Hall of Fame. "Khadijah's impressive background as a player and her successful coaching experience make her the perfect fit to lead our women's basketball program. This is another great addition to our Athletic Department that reflects our commitment to excellence."
 
Rushdan expressed her enthusiasm for the opportunity to lead the Hornets, stating, "I am beyond grateful and excited to be back home and lead the women's basketball program at Delaware State University, a truly historic institution. As a native of Delaware, this opportunity is incredibly special to me, and I'm thankful to President Allen, AD Tucker, and Dr. Hawkins for their trust and belief in my vision. DSU has tremendous potential, and I'm ready to build a championship culture that energizes our campus, engages our community, and makes our supporters proud!
 
As the new Head Coach, Rushdan aims to foster a culture of excellence, teamwork, and resilience within the program. Her vision includes not only winning games but also developing well-rounded student-athletes who excel academically and in community engagement.
 
Delaware State University is excited to embark on this new chapter under Coach Rushdan's leadership and looks forward to the upcoming season.
 
For more information about the Delaware State University Women's Basketball Team and Coach Khadijah Rushdan, please plan to attend a special occasion to officially welcome Coach Khadijah to DSU. She will be introduced during the closing ceremonies of our 2^nd Annual Chairman's Invitational Golf Tournament. See details below:
 
 
Coach Khadijah Rushdan - Welcome & Introduction Media Event
Date: April 24, 2026
Time: 4:00pm
Location: Wild Quail Country Club (1 Clubhouse Drive; Camden, DE; 19934)
 
About Delaware State University:
Delaware State University is a historically black university located in Dover, Delaware, dedicated to providing a high-quality education and fostering a diverse and inclusive community. The university is committed to academic excellence, research, and community service, preparing students for success in a global society.