Nicholls announced the hiring of former Loyola University of New Orleans head coach DoBee Plaisance to lead the Lady Colonels basketball team at the start of the 2008-2009 season. Plaisance, pending approval of the University of Louisiana System, will become the ninth head coach of the Lady Colonels basketball team.

“We are extremely excited about what Plaisance brings to our women’s basketball program,” Rob Bernardi, athletics director, said. “I believe she will provide tremendous leadership coupled with a strong commitment to the academic success of our student-athletes.”

After 13 seasons leading the Wolfpack, Plaisance leaves Loyola after back-to-back Gulf Coast Athletic Conference Regular Season Championships in her last two seasons as head coach.

“She did a great job leading our women’s program since its inception here at Loyola, including an NAIA Elite Eight appearance last season,” Michael Giorlando, Loyola director of intercollegiate athletics and wellness, said. “Nicholls State is not only getting an outstanding coach, but a person who will be a leader in the local community. I believe she will bring success to their program.