Ole Miss coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin’s players often describe her as someone who is always “doing too much,” but that’s a big reason why they now find themselves in their second Sweet 16 in three years. Most importantly, it’s why they love being part of her team.

‘Coach Yo’ Maintains High Morale

KK Deans vividly recalls her first 1-on-1 workout with Coach McPhee-McCuin after transferring from Florida in 2023, during which she wasn’t fully engaged. “She went into her office, got my stats from the last year, and started reading them out loud to me,” Deans revealed. “I thought, ‘She’s crazy.’ But I knew she would hold me accountable and push me to my limits.”

Quote: “Coach Yo always brings the best out of us, keeping things fun while pushing us to get better.”

For freshman Sira Thienou, TikTok dances were a key factor in her decision to join the team. Each time Coach McPhee-McCuin visited, they would make a TikTok together, leading Thienou to feel comfortable working with her.

“I made up my mind that I was really comfortable with her. Our relationship would be a great duo,” Thienou shared.

The fun continues with their own tradition of speed walking to the locker room after warmups, where Deans often brags about her prowess, suggesting foul play to explain any victories.

“Madison Scott cheats because she tries to count down before taking off!” Deans joked, with Thienou nodding in agreement. “One, two, and she’s already ‘gone.’”

As they prepare for their matchup against UCLA, the team fully embraces their underdog role.

Quote: “Nobody expects us to win, but with every game, we show our true capabilities,” Deans stated.

Yolett McPhee-McCuin views the Sweet 16 as just another game, emphasizing the importance of taking it one game at a time. “We are excited to compete and aim for a spot in the Elite Eight—if being the underdogs is what we are, so be it. We will fight hard."