**RICHMOND, VA —** A new chapter of women's basketball is beginning in Richmond, and both of the city's Atlantic 10 programs have reasons for optimism.
Virginia Commonwealth University and the Richmond Spiders women's basketball program will enter the 2026–27 season under new head coaches with championship experience.
Chelsea Banbury takes over at VCU after a successful tenure at High Point, while Alisa Kresge arrives at Richmond following eight seasons leading Vermont.
With the regular season beginning in early November, the upcoming campaign offers local basketball fans an opportunity to follow two programs entering important transitions.
## Two Coaches Bringing Championship Experience to Richmond
Chelsea Banbury was named VCU's head coach on March 31, 2026.
During seven seasons at High Point, Banbury compiled a 140–79 record, captured four Big South regular-season championships, and guided the program to three NCAA Tournament appearances.
Her final High Point team finished 27–6 and won both the conference's regular-season and tournament championships.
Across town, Alisa Kresge brings a similarly accomplished résumé.
Richmond hired Kresge on April 11 after she compiled a 145–89 record at Vermont, winning three America East Tournament championships and reaching three NCAA Tournaments.
Both coaches inherit programs with established expectations, but their first seasons will also involve developing new combinations of players and building team chemistry.
## New Faces Could Shape the Season
VCU's roster includes two notable additions who followed Banbury from High Point.
Macy Spencer, the 2026 Big South Player of the Year, joins the Rams alongside Lexi Fleming, who previously surpassed 1,000 career points.
VCU also returns eight letter winners, including Katarina Knežević.
Richmond's returning group includes All-Conference guard Ally Sweeney, while Duquesne transfer Harriet Ford joins a collection of incoming freshmen.
The roster changes create intriguing questions about how quickly both programs can establish their identities.
For young basketball players throughout Central Virginia, the season will also provide opportunities to watch accomplished collegiate athletes compete at local venues.
## Major Women's Basketball Matchups Are Coming to Henrico
One of the most exciting developments on the local basketball calendar is the return of the 4 Tha Culture Holiday Classic.
The event will bring several prominent college programs to the Henrico Sports & Events Center over Thanksgiving weekend.
VCU is scheduled to face Coppin State on November 27, Ohio State on November 28, and Florida State on November 29.
Richmond will also participate, facing St. John's on November 27 and Coppin State on November 28.
The tournament creates an opportunity for local fans to experience college basketball featuring opponents from several conferences without leaving the Richmond metropolitan area.
The venue will also host the Atlantic 10 Women's Basketball Championship from March 3–7, 2027.
## The Richmond Rivalry Returns Twice
Two dates deserve special attention.
Richmond will host VCU at the Robins Center on **January 17, 2027**.
The programs will meet again on **February 14 at noon**, when VCU hosts Richmond at the Siegel Center.
The Valentine's Day matchup is scheduled for national television on USA Sports.
Both games will give Richmond basketball fans an opportunity to experience one of the city's most recognizable collegiate rivalries.
The matchups could also provide important measuring points for both first-year coaches as the Atlantic 10 season progresses.
## Why This Season Matters
Women's basketball continues to offer an important pathway for young athletes pursuing opportunities beyond high school.
Richmond's two Atlantic 10 programs provide local examples of the commitment, development, and competition required at the Division I level.
The Spiders begin their season November 2 at Charlotte. VCU opens November 3 at home against Central Connecticut State.
With two new coaches, major nonconference opponents, and nationally televised rivalry basketball ahead, the 2026–27 season offers plenty for Central Virginia fans to follow.
**Richmond's next chapter of women's basketball is about to begin.**