LAS VEGAS — After wrapping up her treatment for breast cancer, Lisa Fortier walked into the Gonzaga basketball facility last week, greeted by an enthusiastic celebration of balloons, streamers, and the cheerful sounds of her players blowing horns.
Yvonne Ejim expressed her pride in the coach through tears, stating, “I never once doubted you.” Fortier received her cancer diagnosis on February 6 and underwent surgery in April. While she is still in recovery from radiation and chemotherapy, she acknowledges that it may take anywhere from six months to a year to regain her full strength; thus, she plans to pace herself this season, occasionally delegating tasks to her coaching staff.
Nevertheless, Fortier is committed to coaching. “For whatever reason, my body responded pretty well. I’ve had decent energy, and it’s not just coffee and Red Bull,” she shared, smiling.
Last Wednesday, she attended the West Coast Conference basketball media days, accompanied by three of her players. Gonzaga has been picked as the conference’s favorite, and Fortier seemed eager to kick off the season. While a seat awaited her at a podium, she opted to stand and address the media.
“If you didn’t see her losing her hair, you wouldn’t know anything different,” remarked senior guard Esther Little. “The way she carries herself, the way she treats the people around her, she still prioritizes everyone else before herself. It’s truly inspiring. I hope one day I can embody that kind of spirit.”
At 43, Fortier reflected on her bout with cancer as a catalyst for reassessing how she manages her time in a profession marked by long hours and high stress.
She found comfort in her faith during this tumultuous period, feeling grateful for the tremendous support from Gonzaga’s community and fellow coaches, and cherished extra moments with her husband, Craig, who is an assistant coach, and their three children.
“I’ve spent a lot of time contemplating our industry and its demands. The pressure to win at all costs can overwhelm us, leading to a relentless chase for success,” Fortier remarked. “While working hard is vital, it’s crucial to avoid being consumed by this intense competition. This experience has given me time to reflect on our profession and contemplate improvements.”
As she embarks on her 11th season as head coach, Fortier brings a remarkable 265-63 record that boasts eight WCC regular-season titles and four conference tournament championships. She has led the Zags to the NCAA Tournament eight times and has been honored as the WCC Coach of the Year six times.
Fortier received her health news about a month before the conference tournament this past season. Following evaluations to determine her treatment plan, she deftly managed basketball practice alongside radiation sessions, completing her treatments during the off-season.
Despite the challenges, she successfully led the Bulldogs to an NCAA Tournament appearance as a No. 4 seed, winning two initial games before succumbing to Texas in the Sweet 16.
With her energy now focused on overcoming cancer, Ejim, the reigning WCC Player of the Year, described Fortier’s ability to show up every day as a source of inspiration. “She dedicated herself to her family, her players, and herself, exhibiting extraordinary strength and determination,” she stated.
Throughout her treatment, Fortier was transparent with her team, choosing to keep them informed about her journey.
“She truly involved us in her entire process,” noted graduate student Maud Huijbens, the conference’s top sixth woman last season. “She’s open about everything she has faced, and she welcomes any questions with honesty and candor.”
Finishing her treatment on October 7, Fortier confirmed she is cancer-free but must continue regular follow-ups with her doctor every three months for check-ups and blood work.
“In theory, I’m all set to go,” Fortier acknowledged. “I’m focusing on allowing my body to recover fully, and then I aim to move forward without looking back.”