Kenny Brooks Breaks Silence on Cassidy Rowe’s Departure: “It Was One of the Toughest Decisions of My Career”
For the first time since the controversial release of Cassidy Rowe from the North Carolina women’s basketball program, head coach Kenny Brooks has publicly addressed the situation, providing long-awaited clarity on a decision that stirred deep emotions among fans and players alike.
Speaking with transparency and sincerity during a media availability session at the Dean E. Smith Center, Brooks called Rowe’s departure “one of the toughest and most emotional decisions” of his coaching career—an unavoidable move that, while difficult, was made in the best interest of the evolving vision he has for Tar Heel women’s basketball.
“Cassidy is a Wonderful Young Woman”
Brooks opened his remarks by emphasizing his deep respect and admiration for Rowe both as a player and as a person.
“Cassidy Rowe is a wonderful young woman—high character, hardworking, and a great teammate,” Brooks said. “Her commitment to the program, her love for Carolina, and her bond with this community are things we don’t take lightly.”
Brooks made it clear that the decision was not personal, but rather a part of a broader, strategic overhaul as he builds UNC into a national contender.
A Program in Transition
Taking over the reins of North Carolina women’s basketball earlier this year, Brooks inherited a talented but transitional roster. His goal from day one was to raise the program’s national profile, elevate its recruiting standard, and instill a championship-level culture.
“This is never about one player,” he explained. “It’s about the team we’re trying to become, the style we want to play, and the identity we’re building from the ground up. Sometimes, that means making incredibly hard decisions that affect good people.”
Sources close to the program suggest that Rowe’s role became uncertain with a wave of new high-profile transfers and recruits coming in. While she had been a dependable presence under the previous staff, her fit in the new system appeared increasingly limited.
Navigating the Human Side
Brooks admitted the personal difficulty in delivering the news to Rowe and her family.
“I sat down with Cassidy and was honest,” Brooks said. “I told her that this wasn’t a reflection of her value, her work ethic, or who she is as a person. This was about fit, opportunity, and fairness to her long-term basketball goals.”
The head coach also acknowledged the public backlash and emotional reaction from sections of the Tar Heel fanbase.
“I get it. I do. People care. And when fans care deeply, they react deeply. That’s what makes Carolina special. But my job is to make decisions with the program’s future in mind—even when it breaks hearts, including my own.”
What’s Next for Rowe
Though Brooks did not go into detail about where Rowe might land next, he expressed confidence that she will find another opportunity to thrive.
“Cassidy is going to succeed wherever she goes. She’s a fighter, a leader, and someone every coach would be lucky to have. I’ll be cheering her on.”
Final Thoughts
In addressing the situation head-on, Kenny Brooks showed the weight of leadership—balancing competitive ambition with emotional responsibility. While the decision to part ways with Cassidy Rowe remains painful for many, Brooks’ willingness to speak honestly about the process offers clarity, closure, and a look into the standards he’s establishing in Chapel Hill.
As the new era of UNC women’s basketball continues to take shape, one thing is clear: Kenny Brooks is not just building a team—he’s building a culture.
