ALBUQUERQUE — The University of New Mexico didn't have to look far to find the next head coach of the women's basketball program.

After three weeks of searching the nation, the university hired associate head coach Yvonne Sanchez on Friday afternoon. She replaces her mentor, Don Flanagan, who announced his retirement earlier this month after 16 seasons.

Sanchez has big shoes to fill.

Flanagan was the most successful head coach in the program's history having finished with a 340-168 record. He also led the Lobos to the NCAA Tournament eight times and his teams earned six Mountain West Conference Tournament titles.

Sanchez said in a statement issued by the university that she's thrilled to be the next head coach.

"Coach Flanagan has been such a mentor and positive influence in my life, and has prepared me for this opportunity," she said. "Being a native New Mexican, the passion and pride I have for this university and athletic department is tremendous."

Sanchez, who joined the Lobos coaching staff in 2000, said she's ready to lead the Lobos to the top of the Mountain West Conference.

The young Lobos finished 13-18 overall this year and missed out on any postseason play, marking one of only two losing seasons for the Lobos during Flanagan's tenure.

Sanchez has been the associate head coach for the past three seasons. Her duties have included coordinating recruiting, working with Lobo guards during practice and scouting opponents.

"Yvonne is passionate about Lobo basketball, she brings great energy, and is an outstanding recruiter. Her reputation within the coaching community is outstanding, and she is the right person to lead this program into the future," said athletic director Paul Krebs, in making the announcement.

An Albuquerque native, Sanchez was a three-year letter winner under Flanagan at Eldorado High School from 1982-85. During that time, the Eagles won a state-record 74 consecutive games and two state titles.

Sanchez earned a bachelor's degree in psychology from U.S. International University in San Diego, where she was a four-year letter winner.

The 43-year-old got her coaching start in 1989 at Academy of Our Lady of Peace, a high school in San Diego, Calif. She led the squad to two championships and was named the 1990 San Diego prep coach of the year.

Sanchez also was an assistant coach at San Diego State and with the New Mexico State Roadrunners.