ATLANTA — Third-year Longwood women's basketball assistant coach Rachel Balzer has been named to the 2025-26 Women's Basketball Coaches Association's Thirty Under 30, presented by Morgan Stanley Global Sports and Entertainment, the organization announced Tuesday.

The WBCA Thirty Under 30 program was created to recognize 30 up-and-coming women's basketball coaches aged 30 and under at all levels of the game. Each honoree has exemplified their involvement in community service, mentorship and impact on others, professional manner, and attitude and professional association involvement.

Balzer has helped Longwood to consecutive 20-win seasons for the first time at Division I and first time in history since 2000-01 and 1999-00. 

She was elevated after her first season from director of basketball operations and player development to assistant coach and then again to the Lancers' recruiting coordinator in 2025-26. In three seasons, Balzer has helped Longwood to a 52-43 (.547) mark, including a berth in the Big South Conference championship game last season and the league semifinals this season.

"I'm so excited for Rachel to receive this recognition from the WBCA," Longwood head coach Erika Lang-Montgomery said. "She is a bright star in this industry. Her IQ, knowledge and love for the game has made our program better each season she has been on staff. I look forward to watching her grow in this profession."

Balzer is one of 19 honorees this season from NCAA Division I. The group also includes coaches from NCAA Divisions II, III and the high school ranks.

This year's WBCA Thirty Under 30 class will be recognized April 2 at the Hyatt Regency in Phoenix, Ariz.