Former Tennessee Lady Vols coach Kellie Harper has found a renewed passion for coaching after a year away from the game. Harper, who was dismissed from her dream job, spent time reconnecting with her love of horses. This break allowed her to reassess her priorities and find joy outside of basketball, a shift which ultimately led her to her current role as Missouri women's basketball coach.

Harper's time away from coaching included working as an analyst for the SEC Network and spending quality time with family. She realized she wanted to coach again, but this time, she wanted to find more joy in the process. The experiences of her time off have helped her to understand the importance of patience and trust, both on and off the court.

Learning to ride horses has helped Harper approach coaching with a fresh perspective. She's now in her 21st season as a head coach, and first at Mizzou. This season, she's focused on balancing work and personal life. Harper's journey highlights the challenges and rewards of coaching, and the importance of finding balance in a demanding profession.

Harper's story is a reminder that personal passions can revitalize professional lives. Her love for horses has become a tool for self-improvement, mirroring the lessons she imparts to her players. As she leads the Missouri Tigers, Harper carries a renewed sense of purpose, blending her equestrian pursuit with her coaching career.