McMaster University’s Theresa Burns, one of the most accomplished coaches in Canadian university basketball history, is retiring after 34 seasons at the helm of the Marauders women’s basketball program.

Burns’ career is synonymous with McMaster’s rise to national prominence in U SPORTS women’s basketball. Since taking over the program in 1992, she amassed more than 600 career victories, led the Marauders to five Ontario University Athletics (OUA) conference championships, and guided McMaster to its first-ever national title in 2019. 

Along the way, she shaped the careers of generations of student-athletes and cemented her reputation as one of the most respected and influential coaches in Canadian basketball.

“Coaching has been my life’s passion,” said Burns, in a letter to the Marauder community. “I have been incredibly fortunate to spend my career doing what I love—teaching, mentoring, and helping young athletes grow not only as basketball players but as people.”

“To have been entrusted with this program, to help guide its evolution, and to witness the achievements of so many outstanding student-athletes has been the privilege of a lifetime.”

Her decision to retire marks the end of an era for McMaster women’s basketball, a program she helped build into one of the country’s elite. Known for her steady leadership, technical expertise, and ability to foster a strong team culture, Burns leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond the court.

A standout player at the University of Toronto, Burns started her coaching career at Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson) and coached the Rams for four seasons before accepting the head coach position at McMaster. Burns arrived in Hamilton in 1992, and over the next three decades, set records, developed numerous CIS/U SPORTS All-Canadians, and consistently positioned the Marauders among the top teams in the OUA. 

Her impact on the program reached its pinnacle in 2019 when McMaster defeated Laval 70-58 to capture its first-ever Bronze Baby––the U SPORTS national championship trophy.

“The memories, the relationships, the shared triumphs and lessons—these are what I will carry with me as I step away,” added Burns.

Throughout her career, Burns emphasized fundamentals, defensive intensity, and player development. Her teams were known for their discipline, execution, and relentless work ethic—qualities that reflected their coach’s approach to the game.

“Coach Burns has had an immeasurable impact – not just on 34 years of McMaster student-athletes, but on generations of basketball players in the Hamilton community” said Keenan Jeppesen, Director of Athletics & Recreation. “Her leadership, commitment to excellence and care for her players will be missed, but her legacy will be felt for years to come.”

Building a Championship Program

Under her guidance, the Marauders earned five OUA championships (1994, 1996, 2006, 2008, 2019) and made multiple national championship appearances.

Burns’ coaching accolades include three OUA Coach of the Year awards and the 2008 CIS (now U SPORTS) Coach of the Year honour. She was also recognized with the 2021-22 Women in Sport Recognition Award for her contributions to the advancement of women’s basketball in Canada.

Assistant coach Ed Grosel, who worked closely on the sidelines with Burns for the past 18 seasons, acknowledged the significance of her mark on the program.

“Coach Theresa’s dedication, hard work and passion have left such a positive impact on the McMaster women’s basketball program, that it has set a standard which other universities strive to replicate. It has been an honour and a privilege to be part of her staff.”

In 2023, Burns recorded her 570th career victory, becoming the second-winningest coach in U SPORTS women’s basketball history (behind only her mentor, Michèle Bélanger). She finishes her career with 618 wins, ranking among the all-time greats in the Canadian university coaching landscape.

A Legacy of Leadership

Beyond the wins and championships, Burns built a culture of excellence that prioritized the holistic development of her players. 

She mentored numerous athletes who went on to professional careers in basketball and coaching, and she played a key role in shaping some of the most decorated players in McMaster history, including U SPORTS Players of the Year Danielle Boiago (2016-17) and Sarah Gates (2022-23), CIS Rookie of the Year Danielle Everitt (1998-99), CIS Defensive Players of the Year Chiara Rocca (2005-06) and Rachel Hart (2007-08), as well as Lisa Thomaidis, former Canadian Women’s National Team and current University of Saskatchewan head coach.

Having spent their university careers under Burns’ guidance, graduating seniors Delaney Bourget and Amy Stinson spoke about the lasting impact she has had on them and the program.

“I will always be thankful for the way that Coach has embraced me and my family into this program,” said Bourget. “She has been a strong and consistent role model and I am so grateful to have learned from her throughout my career.”

“Coach is a legend,” said Stinson. “I feel fortunate to have been a part of her team, even if just for a fraction of her amazing career. She motivated us to volunteer with local teams, get involved in student groups, and strive to be people of good character. Playing for her was an incredible privilege”

Her impact extended beyond McMaster as well. Burns served as an assistant coach with Team Canada at the 2019 FISU Summer Universiade and coached at the provincial level with Team Ontario. She was a trusted voice in the basketball community, known for her ability to develop talent and her commitment to growing the game at all levels.

A National Search

McMaster will begin conducting a national search for its next head coach immediately, aiming to build on the foundation of excellence Burns established. The Marauders remain one of the premier programs in the OUA and U SPORTS, and the next coach will inherit a team that continues to compete at a high level and prioritize student-athlete development.

The university is planning a public celebration to honour Burns’ career and contributions, with details to be announced ahead of the 2025-26 season.