Middle Tennessee State University Athletics
Women's Basketball
- Title:
- Head Coach
- Email:
- matt.insell@mtsu.edu
- Phone:
- 898-5207
Matt Insell was named the eighth head coach in Middle Tennessee women’s basketball history in 2026, continuing a family legacy while ushering the Blue Raiders into a new era.
A familiar figure in Murfreesboro and a key contributor to the program’s success, Insell returned to his alma mater in 2018 and spent eight seasons on staff, including four as associate head coach. During that time, he helped elevate Middle Tennessee into a consistent national contender, contributing to three NCAA Tournament appearances (2021, 2023, 2024) and a WNIT semifinal run in 2022.
Insell was instrumental in one of the most successful stretches in program history. The 2023–24 team finished 30–5 overall, swept the Conference USA regular season and tournament championships, and advanced to the NCAA Tournament Round of 32 with a win over Louisville. Middle Tennessee also earned its first end-of-season national ranking since 2010, finishing No. 23 in the AP Top 25 following the 2022–23 campaign.
Known for his detailed preparation, analytical approach, and ability to connect with student-athletes, Insell has built a reputation as one of the top player development coaches in the country—particularly with guards. His influence has helped produce numerous All-Conference selections, All-Americans, and professional players, while his recruiting efforts have brought elite talent to Murfreesboro, including McDonald’s All-Americans and conference award winners.
Before returning to Middle Tennessee, Insell served five seasons (2013–18) as head coach at Ole Miss, where he guided the Rebels to multiple postseason appearances and recorded four wins over top-25 opponents. His tenure included a 19-win season and a WNIT third-round appearance in 2014–15, along with signature victories over nationally ranked programs.
Prior to his time in Oxford, Insell spent five seasons as an assistant coach at Kentucky, helping the Wildcats to four NCAA Tournament appearances, three Elite Eight runs, and multiple top-25 finishes. He was heavily involved in recruiting and player development, working with All-Americans and SEC award winners.
Insell’s coaching career began with stops at Louisiana Tech as director of basketball operations and on the AAU circuit, where he gained national recognition as head coach of the Tennessee Flight Nike Elite program. He coached dozens of future Division I players and led the Shelbyville Sports Shop 15-under team to the 2004 AAU National Championship.
A native of Shelbyville, Tennessee, Insell began building his foundation in the game as a student assistant at the University of Tennessee, working with both the men’s and women’s programs. He later transferred to Middle Tennessee, earning his bachelor’s degree in political science in 2007.
Deeply rooted in the Blue Raider program, Insell combines championship experience, a proven track record as a head coach, and a strong connection to the university and community. His leadership marks the continuation of a tradition of excellence while positioning Middle Tennessee for sustained success on the national stage.
Insell and his wife, Autumn, reside in Murfreesboro with their two children, Clark and Evie.
THE INSELL FILE
PERSONAL
Full Name: Matthew Ollen Insell
Birthday: September 22
Hometown: Shelbyville, Tenn.
High School: Shelbyville Central HS
College: Middle Tennessee, ’07
Degree: Bachelor's degree in Political Science
COACHING EXPERIENCE
2026-Present: Head Coach, Middle Tennessee
2022-2026: Associate Head Coach, Middle Tennessee
2018-2022: Assistant Coach, Middle Tennessee
2013-2018: Head Coach, Ole Miss
2008-2013: Assistant Coach, Kentucky
2007-08: Director of Basketball Operations, Louisiana Tech
2001-07: Head Coach, AAU Tennessee Flight
MILESTONE WINS
First Career Win - Jacksonville State, 83-62 (Nov. 8, 2013)
First Home Win -
First Road Win -
First CUSA Win -
First CUSA Tournament Win -
First Postseason Victory (WNIT) - UT Martin, 80-70 (March 18, 2015)
"There's no better choice to continue the legacy of Rick than Matt. I am sure he will have as much impact on his players and the game as his dad did, and he'll honor his dad's legacy by giving his all to Middle Tennessee." - Head Coach Dawn Staley, South Carolina
"Matt Insell will continue the winning tradition that his father Rick instilled in that program for the past 20+ years. His experience in the southeastern conference as a head coach as well as being by his father's side these past few years will allow him to take that program to new heights. Matt is a savvy recruiter and I know he will put together a tremendous staff that will be great for the community there in Murfreesboro as well as the state of Tennessee. What a great decision the university made in hiring Matt to be the head coach, there at Middle Tennessee State University." - Head Coach Vic Schaefer, Texas
"Middle Tennessee built a great tradition under Coach Rick Insell. It's a program that has established itself as one of the most excellent in the country. Middle Tennessee made a great decision by entrusting Matt to continue that excellence. Matt recruits incredible talent, he is a great tactician and someone who cares about people. He is a connector and helps players develop into their very best version. I expect him to lead MTSU to many championships during his time as head coach. This is a great day for Blue Raiders Basketball." - Head Coach Matthew Mitchell, Houston
