Howard Payne University athletics announced Thursday that HPU head women’s basketball coach Yannick Denson is leaving the program to take an NCAA Division I assistant position with the College of Charleston women’s basketball program.

“I want to personally thank Hunter Sims and President Hines for the opportunity to be at this great institution,” said Yannick Denson.  “Howard Payne will forever have a place in my heart.”

Over the past three seasons, Yannick Denson posted a 32-37 (10-7 in 2020-21) coaching record and extended the Lady Jackets conference tournament appearance record to 18 consecutive seasons.

“We are very thankful for Coach Denson’s time leading the women’s basketball program,” said Hunter Sims, HPU director of athletics.  “We were very pleased with the direction he has taken the program. It is unfortunate for us to lose a coach like Coach Denson, but we wish him the best of luck.”

Howard Payne will begin the search for a new head women’s basketball coach immediately.