Official Release - April 8, 2026
ORLANDO - UCF women's basketball head coach Gabe Lazo has announced Mollie Patmore as the program's director of operations, marking the fourth hire in an action-packed week for the newly minted coach.
Patmore will make the short journey on I-4 east after spending the past two seasons as the Director of Operations at South Florida, gaining valuable experience managing the program’s ins and outs, including scheduling, travel, meals and academic endeavors.
"Mollie is everything a coach wants in their direction of operations, she’s diligent, brings a great mindset, and has already gained so much valuable experience in her career," said Lazo. "Working under Jose Fernandez, who has been a mentor for me throughout my career, I know she has what it takes to elevate a Big 12 program to the next level."
Her second stint in Tampa came after serving in a similar role at UMBC as the women’s basketball director of operations, executing similar roles, including establishing a camp LLC for her head coach, along with the branded website and gear.
The New Jersey native first worked for Jose Fernandez’ staff at South Florida in a graduate assistant role from August 2022 to April 2024, completing her MBA and MS in business administration and sports and entertainment management in the process.
"I’m beyond thrilled to join Coach Lazo and the UCF Women’s Basketball program. Coach Lazo is a tremendous person, and it’s been clear in getting to know him how much he values people and relationships," said Patmore. "His ability to connect with student athletes will drive this program to new heights. I’m excited to stay in Florida and contribute to building a championship-level program alongside this incredible staff!"
Fernandez, now the current Dallas Wings head coach, brought Patmore in to assist the director of operations with the program’s scheduling and travel. She coordinated 200-plus home and away events, along with the aiding in the Bulls’ community service efforts over her two seasons.
Patmore attended Delaware and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in Sports Management and a minor in event management. Throughout her time as a student, she rose through the ranks with the Fightin’ Blue Hens women’s basketball team, eventually becoming the head manager. Her work with the program garnered her to Grow The Game’s Manager All-America Team.