In a move that's turning heads across both the hardwood and the fairways, La Salle University has named Denise "Dei" Lynam as its new head women's golf coach. Known primarily for her work as an NBA analyst covering the Philadelphia 76ers, Lynam is swapping the broadcast booth for the golf course—at least part-time.
"We're excited to welcome Dei as our new women's golf coach," said Phil Snead, La Salle's Interim Director of Athletics. "Dei is a household name in Philadelphia sports and will raise the profile of our program. We can't wait to see her help our student-athletes excel on the course, in the classroom, and in the community."
Lynam's appointment brings a unique blend of sports insight and local star power to the Explorers. She'll continue her role as an analyst for the Philadelphia 76ers and their G-League affiliate, the Delaware Blue Coats, while also hosting pre- and post-game radio shows on 97.5 The Fanatic. Her coverage extends to collegiate women's basketball across the Philadelphia region and the Northeast.
Golf, however, runs deep in the Lynam family. Dei and her husband, Tim, are two-time champions of the Rolling Green Golf Club's husband-and-wife tournament, taking home titles in 2019 and 2024. She also comes from basketball royalty—her father, Jim Lynam, is a former head coach for the 76ers and St. Joseph's University men's basketball team.
Lynam steps into a program that has faced challenges. La Salle finished last in the 2026 Atlantic 10 Women's Golf Championship, and the team—which launched in the 2016-17 season—will now be guided by its fifth head coach. With Lynam's competitive background and Philadelphia sports pedigree, the Explorers are hoping for a fresh start on the course.
"So looking forward to this! Thank you @GoExplorers We will make you proud!" Lynam posted on social media, signaling her excitement for the new chapter ahead.
