16 Facts About Karl Smesko

Karl Smesko previously served as the founding head coach of the Florida Gulf Coast women's basketball team from 2002 to 2024.

Karl Smesko played well enough to garner interest from a small college in Oakland, California, but he chose to attend Kent State University.

Karl Smesko tried again as a senior, and made the team.

Karl Smesko started coaching boys' basketball at his alma mater, Revere High School, while still in college.

Karl Smesko briefly worked as an intern at a local TV station, but he preferred coaching so he decided to pursue a coaching career.

Karl Smesko had attended basketball camps run by Bob Knight and became enamored with Knight's coaching philosophy.

Karl Smesko continued to coach at the high school, while reaching out to secure a college position.

Sendek didn't have a position for him, but did have some advice, urging Karl Smesko obtain his master's degree.

Karl Smesko had never considered coaching women's basketball but he accepted the opportunity.

Karl Smesko assisted the head coach with weight room and workout sessions for the players, as well as tape analysis.

Karl Smesko completed his master's in a year, and then planned to take a job as an assistant with a men's basketball team.

Karl Smesko's father did not consider making the drive to attend the tournament, held in Sioux City, Iowa.

Karl Smesko accepted an assistant coaching position at Maryland in 1998.

Karl Smesko persuaded players to come to the school, even though the first workout would take place on asphalt outdoor courts, while the school built an indoor facility.

On November 13,2024, Karl Smesko was named the head coach of the WNBA's Atlanta Dream.

Karl Smesko's father, Albert, coached high school boys' basketball and is a member of the Akron Coaches Association Hall of Fame.