Springfield, Mass. – June 4, 2026 – Springfield College Director of Athletics, Dr. Craig Poisson, is pleased to announce that Nicole Ambrose has been named as the Head Women's Basketball Coach and assistant professor of physical education at Springfield College.

"Coach Ambrose's professional experience and demonstrated personal commitment to being a 'student of the game', invented right here on Alden Street, strongly aligned with the mission of Springfield College, grounded in the Humanics Philosophy," said Poisson. "I look forward to her impact as a teacher-coach in the classroom and with our student-athletes on the hardwood at the Birthplace of Basketball."

Ambrose arrives on Alden Street after three seasons at Division I Northeastern University. While at Northeastern, Ambrose served one year as the Director of Operations and two seasons as the Assistant Coach for the women's basketball program. Prior to her stint at Northeastern, Ambrose spent three seasons as the assistant women's basketball coach at the University of South Carolina Upstate (2020-23) and three seasons as the assistant women's basketball coach at Indiana University Southeast (2017-20).

"I am incredibly honored to become the next Head Women's Basketball Coach at Springfield College. From the moment I stepped on campus, I felt a sense of community and support that will allow our program to thrive. Coach Naomi Graves laid an incredible foundation, and I am excited for us to build upon that legacy," said Ambrose. "I would like to thank Dr. Craig Poisson, Michelle Lee Scecina, and the search committee for their trust and belief in my vision of sustained excellence for the Posse. I am also deeply grateful for the unwavering support from my parents and family over the years. I'm ready to get to work and proudly represent the Birthplace of Basketball."

Ambrose earned both her bachelor's and master's degrees from the University of Louisville completing her study in sport administration in 2012 and entrepreneurship in 2014. Ambrose went on to receive her master's in teaching form the University of the Cumberlands in 2019.

While at Louisville, Ambrose spent four years as a student-manager for the women's basketball program that made three appearances in the NCAA Division I Championship Tournament and reached the National Championship game in 2013.

Ambrose will make her debut as a head coach in the college ranks on Friday November 6 when the Pride host crosstown rival Western New England University at 7:00 pm in Blake Arena.

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