Thank You, Baylor Bears Women’s Basketball Head Coach. Thank You, Fans: Nicki Collen Drops Powerful Appreciation Message to Everyone Who Has Stood By the Team
In the world of college basketball, where pressure is high and expectations even higher, it takes a special kind of leadership to stand tall in both victory and defeat. For the Baylor Bears women’s basketball program, that leadership has come from none other than Head Coach Nicki Collen. In a heartfelt and powerful appreciation message, Collen took time to thank everyone who has played a part in the journey—players, staff, the Baylor community, and most notably, the fans.
Since taking over the program, Collen has not only carried forward the legacy of success but has also infused the team with her own brand of resilience, integrity, and unity. Her message wasn’t just a thank you—it was a reflection of the bonds that have been built and the challenges that have been overcome. She acknowledged the high standards that come with leading a storied program like Baylor and expressed deep gratitude for the support she has received through every season.
“Thank you to everyone who has believed in this team,” Collen shared. “Through every win, every loss, every injury, and every comeback, you’ve stood by us. That belief has been our foundation.”
The appreciation note hit especially hard for fans who have remained loyal throughout transitions and tough stretches. When a team goes through changes in leadership or experiences growing pains, it’s easy for support to waver. But Baylor’s fans have remained a constant presence, showing up game after game, filling the stands, and flooding social media with messages of encouragement.
To the fans, Collen offered a special shoutout: “You are the heartbeat of our program. From the Ferrell Center to the road games where your voices still ring out—we feel that love and energy. You give us more than just support; you give us a home-court advantage everywhere we go.”
She also extended heartfelt thanks to the student-athletes—the young women who dedicate their lives to the sport, balancing academics, training, and the mental demands that come with representing a top-tier program. Collen made it clear that these players are not just athletes—they are family. She praised their dedication, character, and the way they’ve grown not just as players, but as people.
“In every locker room talk, every film session, and every practice, I’ve seen greatness,” she said. “Not just in how you play, but in how you lead, how you care for each other, and how you represent Baylor.”
But perhaps the most touching aspect of her message was how inclusive it was. She didn’t just thank the obvious players and fans—she went deeper. Collen took time to recognize assistant coaches, trainers, staff behind the scenes, and even the university administration. Her words painted a picture of a community effort, a true family environment that powers the success of Baylor women’s basketball.
“This isn’t a solo act. It takes everyone. From the ones taping ankles to the ones organizing travel, from the academic advisors to the fans painting their faces green and gold—you’re all part of this,” Collen said.
With the season behind them and eyes already looking toward the future, Coach Collen’s message was more than just a gesture. It was a reminder of the strength that comes from unity. In the hyper-competitive world of college sports, where wins and losses often dominate the headlines, Collen chose to highlight something more enduring—gratitude.
Her appreciation message has since resonated deeply with fans and followers of the program, many of whom have shared their own stories of what the team has meant to them. The outpouring of love on social media is proof that Collen’s words struck a chord.
In the end, it wasn’t just a thank you. It was a celebration of everyone who makes the Baylor Bears women’s basketball team what it is—a family, a community, and a powerhouse built not just on talent, but on heart.