Iona University Celebrates 50 Years of Women's Basketball

NEW ROCHELLE, N.Y. — Members of the Iona University community celebrated 50 years of women’s basketball with a reception on January 28, 2023. Gathered in the LaPenta School of Business atrium, the event included formal remarks, a recognition ceremony for historic MVPs, and a special video presentation highlighting the program and its achievements over the years.

Iona’s first varsity women’s sport, the women’s basketball team was founded in 1973, shortly after Iona opened its doors to women in 1969, and the team played their first game against Manhattanville College on February 7, 1973. Building on that foundation, Iona’s women’s basketball program has grown to become a fierce competitor in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC).

“It’s an honor to celebrate 50 years of women’s basketball at Iona,” said Director of Athletics Matthew Glovaski. “While the uniforms, venues, and team members may have changed over the years, the dedication and perseverance that our Gaels display on the court have remained the same. Thank you to all who celebrated this occasion with us, and to all who have had an influence and impact on this program. I look forward to celebrating this team and its accomplishments for years to come.”

Notable alumni instrumental in creating Iona’s women’s basketball program were honored, including Janice “Ghiorsi” Crowley ’76, Ruthanne “Mahoney” Boehmcke ’76, and Jeanne Morris ’74, who was honored posthumously; her daughter, Amy Torigian Parise ’03MST attended the celebration and accepted the recognition. Sandie Capifali, Iona’s first women’s basketball coach from 1974-1984, and Fran Clemente ’95, head coach from 1988-1993, were also honored. Maggie Timoney '89, '92MBA, Heineken CEO and former Iona basketball player, also attended the celebration.

Led by Coach Billi Chambers, Iona’s women’s basketball team went on to secure a win over Manhattan College after the anniversary event. As of February 3, the Gaels have 10 straight wins, are in first place in the MAAC standings, and have a conference record of 11-1. Additionally, on January 19, the team broke an NCAA record by scoring 15 consecutive three-point field goals, breaking the previous record set by North Carolina State. Meanwhile, the Gaels picked up 316 votes in the College Insider Women's Mid Major Top 25 Poll, appearing at No. 17, the only MAAC team inside the top 25.