Kirkwood’s Muhl Announces Retirement Following Hall of Fame Career

Muhl, who has been at the helm of the program since 1989, led Kirkwood to 34 regional finals, 24 national tournament appearances, and helped elevate the program to national prominence. His teams were consistently ranked among the best in the NJCAA, including the 2016-17 team, which had a perfect 37-0 season on their way to a national championship.

 

Muhl has been named Region XI Coach of the Year 23 times and coached 37 All-Americans. He will be inducted into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame as part of the 2026 class, which includes WNBA legends Candace Parker, Elena Delle Donne, and Cheryl Reeve, among others. The induction ceremony is set for June 27 in Knoxville, Tennessee. Muhl is already a member of the NJCAA Hall of Fame (2011), the Kirkwood Community College Hall of Fame (2023) and the William Penn University Hall of Fame, where he was inducted as a player in 2018.

 

Reflecting on his career, Muhl said the relationships and daily work will stand out most.

 

"That first national championship meant a lot because it was something that Kirkwood had never done before, and it showed what this program could become," said Muhl. "When I look back though, there are just so many moments that stand out–really too many to count. What I'll miss the most are the everyday conversations with our players and coaches, and getting ready for games. I always loved coming into the office and getting to work. Winning was always important, but more than anything, I just wanted to help our players grow and become the best people they could be."

 

Muhl's impact extends far beyond wins and championships. He helped develop players who went on to compete at major NCAA programs across the country and built a culture of excellence that drew national attention to Kirkwood.

 

"On behalf of the Kirkwood athletic department, we can't thank Coach Muhl enough for his 38 years of dedication to our student athletes and college during his time at Kirkwood," said Kirkwood Athletic Director Todd Rima. "While being the winningest NJCAA women's coach of all time is a testament to his coaching, you can't measure what he has meant to Kirkwood as an ambassador of the college."

 

As he steps away from coaching, Muhl says he is ready for the next chapter.

 

"The time is right to move on, and I'm ready for what's next," said Muhl. "I'm looking forward to spending more time with my family, taking a few months to relax, and maybe becoming a snowbird and heading south in the winters. Down the road, I could see myself doing some consulting, but for now, I'm excited to slow things down a bit."

 

Muhl will be recognized nationally at the NCAA Women's Final Four on April 3 in Phoenix, Arizona, further cementing his legacy as one of the sport's most accomplished coaches.

 

Kirkwood will begin a national search for its next head women's basketball coach immediately.

Kim Muhl Career Highlights:

 

9 National Championships

1,108–178 Career Record

464-35 Home Record

37 Consecutive 20-win Seasons

34 Regional Finals

24 National Tournament Berths

School record of 37 wins (2009-2010 and 2016-2017)

Only coach in Kirkwood history with an undefeated season (2016-2017: 37-0)

Named NJCAA Region XI Coach of the Year 23 times

Coached 37 All-Americans

Many former players have gone on to NCAA Division I programs including:

Northern Illinois, Idaho State, Iowa, Iowa State, Northern Iowa, Oregon, South Florida, Drake, Illinois State, Southwest Missouri State, St. John's, Stetson, Marquette, Central Michigan, and various NCAA Division II and NAIA schools

NJCAA Hall of Fame Member (2011)

William Penn University Hall of Fame Member (2018)

Kirkwood Community College Hall of Fame Member (2023)

Future Inductee into the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame (2026)