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AZUSA, Calif. — Azusa Pacific women’s basketball head coach Dan Ploog announced the promotion of Paige Uyehara to Assistant Coach for the 2025–26 season. Uyehara, a decorated Cougar alumna and recent graduate assistant, steps into the role following a standout playing career and a successful first season on staff.

Uyehara served as a graduate assistant in 2023–24 under both legendary head coach T.J. Hardeman and first-year head coach Dan Ploog, helping guide the Cougars to a 22–7 record and their eighth consecutive NCAA Division II Tournament appearance.

“Paige has been a cornerstone of our program—first as a player and now as a young coach,” said Ploog. “She understands what it takes to compete at a championship level, and she brings passion, intelligence, and a deep loyalty to APU Women’s Basketball. She’s earned this opportunity, and our program is better because she’s a part of it.”

Spending five seasons with the Cougars from 2019–24, Uyehara left her name all over the APU record books. She ranks:


10th all-time in scoring (1,571 points)



3rd in assists (555)



5th in three-pointers made (204)



6th in free throws made (369)



9th in steals (245)


She played a pivotal role in three-straight PacWest Conference Championships, earning First Team All-PacWest honors in 2021–22, 2022–23, and 2023–24. Uyehara was also named to the D2CCA All-West Region Second Team in back-to-back seasons (2022–23 and 2023–24), solidifying her status as one of the region’s premier guards.

“I’m incredibly grateful to Coach Ploog and the entire athletic department for trusting me in this new role,” said Uyehara. “Azusa Pacific has shaped me in every way—as a player, student, and now as a coach. I’m excited to continue pouring into this program and these players.”

As Uyehara transitions into her new role, she will assist in player development, recruiting, scouting, and continue building upon the culture of excellence that has defined Cougar women’s basketball for over two decades.

Stay up to date with APU Women’s Basketball by following @APUCougars on social media and visiting athletics.apu.edu