PHOENIX, Ariz. – University of Wisconsin-La Crosse women's basketball Malia Nelson was selected as part of the 2026 class of the "So You Want To Be A Coach" program, led by the Women's Basketball Coaches Association (WBCA). Nelson attended the three-day workshop in Phoenix, Arizona, from April 1–3, which was held in conjunction with the Women's Final Four.
 

Also referred to as the "So" program, the program helps increase the application of skills necessary to secure coaching positions across women's basketball. It also connects female basketball players with coaches and administrators to support the transition from player to coach and to increase understanding and awareness of the competencies essential for success in coaching women's basketball.

To be considered for the program, participants must have completed their final season of eligibility at a four-year institution, graduated within the past year, and be nominated by their head coach who is a WBCA member. Selections are based on several factors, including academic success, impact on women's basketball both on and off the court, and professional experience.

Nelson started all 30 games she played in the season and finished second on the team in scoring (10.2 ppg), rebounding (5.7 rpg) and steals (1.3 spg). She was named a Wisconsin Intercolleigate Athletic Conference (WIAC) First Team All-Conference selection and a D3hoops.com All-Region 9 Third Team honoree. Academically, Nelson will graduate with a degree in management and was chosen as a College Sports Communicators (CSC) 2025-26 Academic All-District® Women's Basketball Team recipient.