The Alabama women’s basketball team made an addition to its coaching staff on Thursday. Former McNeese State head coach Brooks Donald Williams will join the Crimson Tide after spending the last nine years with the Cowgirls.

Williams was McNeese State’s all-time leader in wins for a head coach, notching 161 victories, and led the team to six straight postseason appearances with two of those being at the NCAA Tournament.

“I have watched Brooks since she was a high school athlete, Division I assistant and now a nine year Division I head coach and have had great respect and admiration for her character, work ethic and passion for the student athlete,” Alabama head coach Kristy Curry said.

Williams also led the Cowgirls to four 20-win campaigns over the last six seasons. The team also made appearances at the 2011 and 2012 Southland Conference Championships.

McNeese State had multiple players earn individual honors under the leadership of Williams. The team saw 18 players selected to the All-Southland conference. Four McNeese State players also earned Southland Conference Student-Athlete of the Year awards during her time.

Williams helped strengthen the fan base at McNeese State. She helped almost triple the average attendance at home games since 2010. She also has been active in the community, earning multiple awards for community service, including the President’s Award for Outstanding Community Service from McNeese State in 2013.

Before being head coach at McNeese State, Williams worked as a recruiting coordinator and assistant coach at Southern Miss.

“I am thrilled about the new journey ahead at The University of Alabama,” Williams said. “Coach Kristy Curry is a longtime friend and mentor, and I am honored to have this opportunity to work alongside of her.”