Posted Monday, June 20, 3:56 p.m. GW women’s basketball coach Joe McKeown will be with the Colonials through at least 2011 after signing a contract extension on June 17. McKeown is the all-time victory leader in GW basketball history (men’s or women’s) and sits just 19 wins from the esteemed 450-win mark.

“I think I have a great job and I work for great people,” McKeown said. “I am excited to be here for another six years and hopefully we will be able to take it to the next level.”

McKeown’s career resume is one of the finest in women’s collegiate basketball. He has led GW to the NCAA tournament 12 times in 16 seasons and is the all-time career victory leader in the Atlantic 10 conference. Prior to his 1989 arrival in Foggy Bottom, McKeown coached at New Mexico State.

“What he has obtained as whole body of work over his 16 seasons is why we decided to re-sign him not just one-season,” Director of Athletics Jack Kvancz said.

McKeown, who will enter his 20th season as a head coach this upcoming year, has built GW into a recognized power on and off the court. “It’s part of the whole package that he brings,” Kvancz said. “It’s what makes him a great coach.”

The 2005-2006 season will see the return of A-10 rookie of the year Kim Beck and standout Jessica Simonds. The team’s incoming freshmen include twins Jessica and Jazmine Adair along with Faith Peters, Jamila Bates and Chantelle John.