CEDAR RAPIDS, Iowa (KCRG) – Kirkwood Community College has hired longtime college assistant Nate Oakland as the next head coach of its women’s basketball program.
Oakland comes to Kirkwood after four seasons at the University of Northern Iowa, where he served as an assistant coach under Tanya Warren. It marks his second stint with the Panthers; he also coached at UNI from 2006–2009.
“I am extremely honored and humbled to be named the next Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Kirkwood Community College,” Oakland said in a statement. “Thank you to Dr. Kristie Fisher and to Todd Rima for believing in me. My family and I could not be more excited. I aim to build upon and continue the amazing legacy of Hall of Famer Coach Kim Muhl and will work relentlessly to do so. I cannot wait to get to work and compete for our next championship. Go Eagles!”
Before returning to UNI, the Cedar Falls native spent three seasons as the head women’s basketball coach at Upper Iowa University, where the program’s win total improved each year. He also coached at North Dakota State University and had multiple stints at Coe College, including a run as head coach that included 27 wins and a Final Four appearance in the IIAC Tournament in 2017.
“We are thrilled to welcome Coach Nate Oakland, his wife, Alex, and their family into our Kirkwood community,” said Kirkwood Director of Athletics Todd Rima. “His commitment to excellence, both on the court and in the classroom, aligns perfectly with our mission. I look forward to working with Coach Nate to continue the championship success in our women’s basketball program.”
Oakland takes over for Hall of Fame coach Kim Muhl who announced his retirement last month. Muhl accumulated more than 1,100 wins in his career and nine national championships during his 37 seasons with the Eagles.
Copyright 2026 KCRG. All rights reserved.