Erika Dillard

Biography

Entering her first season with the Kansas Jayhawks, Dillard was named Associate Head Coach and Defensive Coordinator, working directly with the program’s back-row unit. She arrives in Lawrence to guide a Kansas defense that was one of the most efficient in the Big 12 during the 2025 season, with KU averaging 14.53 digs per set, edging its opponents' mark of 14.34. The Jayhawks also posted a .934 reception percentage, led by primary passers Ryan White (.947), Grace Nelson (.954) and Selena Leban (.957). Their consistency in serve receive and first contact helped Kansas limit opponents to a .169 hitting percentage throughout the year. Dillard is coming off her seventh season with the Oregon volleyball program, including two years as associate head coach. She joined the Ducks’ staff on January 12, 2018, bringing with her a reputation for developing elite defensive systems, disciplined floor play and efficient production through the middle of the court. During her tenure in Eugene, Dillard helped guide Oregon to six NCAA Tournament appearances and four second-place Pac-12 finishes (2018, 2020, 2022, 2023). The Ducks advanced to the Elite Eight in 2018, 2022 and 2023, and added Sweet 16 runs in both the 2021 spring season and the 2024 campaign. Her impact was evident in Oregon’s defensive structure, blocking efficiency and the consistency of its postseason success. Working closely with Oregon’s middles, Dillard coached three consecutive players to hit .400 or better: Karson Bacon