In a move that’s raising eyebrows across the college basketball world, the Kentucky Wildcats women’s basketball program has added a surprising figure to its sideline staff — a former NBA coach, now serving as the team’s water girl. While the title may seem like a downgrade, insiders say the move is part of an innovative approach to improving bench communication and team culture.
Sources close to the program confirmed that former NBA head coach Marcus Delaney — who led the Atlanta Hawks to multiple playoff appearances — accepted the role after a private conversation with Kentucky head coach Kyra Elzy. The Wildcats have struggled at times with in-game adjustments and bench cohesion, and Elzy believed bringing in someone with professional-level experience could help bridge that gap in an unconventional way.
“He’s not here to hold a clipboard,” Elzy said during Tuesday’s press conference. “He’s here to hold a water bottle — and help our players think like pros.”
Delaney, now 58, appeared on the Wildcats bench during last week’s game against South Carolina, wearing the same training staff polo as the student managers. Observers noted his quiet presence, kneeling near the scorer’s table, passing water to players while offering brief tactical notes between substitutions.
“Coach D doesn’t say much,” said junior guard Tasha Bell. “But when he does, it’s gold. One time during a timeout he just handed me a Gatorade and said, ‘Watch her left shoulder fade — it’s a tell.’ Next play, I got the steal. I mean, the dude’s legit.”
Delaney’s resume includes 12 years as an assistant in the NBA, two as a head coach, and a reputation for being a cerebral defensive mind. After stepping away from the league, he spent time consulting for G-League franchises and occasionally appeared on ESPN as a guest analyst. His decision to join Kentucky in such a low-profile role shocked many, but he insists it’s intentional.
“Too many voices from the top can muddle the message,” Delaney told reporters. “Kyra runs the show. I’m just here to support, stay low, and help these young women recognize what high-level basketball looks like — even if I’m doing it with a towel in one hand and a water bottle in the other.”
The players have embraced the addition. Practice sessions now include brief “pro moments,” where Delaney offers breakdowns of NBA-caliber plays or defensive switches, delivered informally during scrimmages or water breaks. Though technically outside the official coaching staff, his impact has been tangible.
“I think it speaks to what we’re building here,” said Elzy. “We’re not worried about titles. We’re worried about growth. If someone can help us grow — I don’t care if they’re called Coach, Trainer, or Water Girl.”
Other programs have taken notice, with whispers that similar “sideline consultants” might appear across the SEC next season. For now, Kentucky remains the only team in the NCAA with a former NBA coach handing out electrolytes — and wins.
At 17–2 and climbing in the rankings, the Wildcats may have found the perfect blend of hydration and hoops wisdom.
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