Congratulations to Nyla Milleson for being inducted into the 2025 class of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. In an already remarkable career devoted to mentoring, leadership, and athletics, this accomplishment represents yet another milestone.

When asked what this honor means to her, Milleson expressed deep gratitude. “I am very honored and humbled by this honor but it is certainly not a ME honor but a US honor that includes so many people.” She states. “All of the student-athletes that I had the privilege to coach, my assistant coaches and support staff, my family, and many others that have been on this incredible journey with me.” Her words reflect the close connections she has made throughout her career, emphasizing the necessity of teamwork in her success.  

Looking back on her career, Milleson finds the most fulfillment in the people she has influenced. “I have had such an amazing career throughout my 40 years. Many teams and memories stand out for sure, but I am most proud as I look at the lives I have impacted. I love seeing my former players that are having successful lives, families, and careers. One of the best things was to watch a young, many times immature freshman, grow into an amazing young woman.” These reflections show her tremendous devotion to her players’ development beyond the game itself.

Milleson has had an exciting career coaching at all levels, from high school to Division I. When asked how her coaching mindset has changed over time, she stated that while basketball remains the same, the environment and logistics have evolved.

“Basketball is basketball and coaching is coaching. The biggest difference was the recruiting aspect and as the years progressed with the ‘transfer portal,’ turnover became more prominent. Of course, the difference in the resources, travel, and amount of staff made a difference in the daily grind, but when I stepped foot on the floor, there wasn’t much difference in my approach.” Her adaptability and ongoing dedication to coaching fundamentals contributed significantly to her continued success.

Her transition to the role of an athletic director required a shift in perspective. Milleson reflects, “Having sat in a coach’s chair for over 35 years, I certainly understand what our coaches are going through and I think that helps them respect me and my decisions. It is difficult at times to take the ‘coach’s hat’ off and look at the bigger university picture but that is my job. I’ve got to make decisions that are best for everyone and not just one particular program.”

Her ability to find a balance between the demands of individual programs and Drury Athletics’ overall goal demonstrates her strategic thinking and leadership skills. As the first woman to lead a collegiate athletics department in Springfield, Milleson appreciates the significance of this achievement.

“I am so grateful for the many women before me that paved the way for my career,” She shares. “ But it’s pretty amazing to think that I am the first. Hopefully, I am helping young women of the future.” Her trailblazing role serves as an example for future generations of women seeking jobs in sports administration.

Her advice to young women aspiring to enter coaching or sports administration is both empowering and encouraging. She stated, “Go for it!! There are so many opportunities in today’s world for strong women. Always have a voice and stand up for what you believe. Learn how to work together as one!!” This message of confidence and unity reflects her own journey and the values she has upheld throughout her career.

Looking ahead, Milleson is optimistic about the future of Drury Athletics. “There are so many good things happening at Drury and within our athletic department. I am really excited about our leadership under Dr. Frederick. We have some amazing coaches that believe in our mission and that work hard to give our student-athletes an incredible experience both on and off of their competition arena.”

Her passion for Drury Athletics’ continuous success and expansion is evident, and she remains deeply invested in its future.Reflecting on her career, Milleson highlights a particularly memorable experience that holds a special place in her heart.

“I have always been about relationships and helping young people be successful. I have been so blessed with so many great people around me and a tremendous amount of success. Every school that I was fortunate enough to be their coach brought its own memories, successes, and challenges that I not only learned from but that I will also cherish. Starting the program from scratch at Drury will always hold a special place in my heart,” Milleson comments.

“I got to do it my way, put the people around me that I believed would make us successful, and somehow the dream all became a reality. Then in year number four, we were able to advance to the national championship game. This past weekend we celebrated 25 years of Lady Panther basketball and to have so many from the early years back and relive the past was nothing short of amazing.”

Milleson concludes with a heartfelt expression of gratitude. “I am just truly blessed and grateful for such an unbelievable career. I could not have done it without my family and the many that supported and loved me for so many years,” she expresses. Her words express how deeply she appreciates everyone who have been a part of her journey.

Nyla Milleson’s legacy continues to inspire as she is honored by her well-deserved induction into the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. She has influenced the lives of countless athletes, promoted the development of sports programs, and cleared the path for upcoming athletic leaders from her early coaching days to her current position as a part of Drury’s leadership.

Her career demonstrates the importance of dedication, mentorship, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Once more, congratulations to Nyla Milleson on this outstanding accomplishment.

Features image courtesy of Drury Panthers