Bonvicini, Joan

A 1975 graduate of Southern Connecticut State University, Joan Bonvicini starred at point guard and earned four varsity letters. Her team went to the AIAW Nationals in all four seasons (1972-75), placing third in ‘73 and ‘74. As team co-captain, she was named the AIAW Regional MVP in ‘75 and was Honorable Mention All-American, as well as a finalist on the ‘76 U.S. Women’s Olympic Basketball Team. In her senior year at SCSU, Bonvicini led the nation in assists per game (9), and in steals per game (7.)

Bonvicini was the Head Coach at Long Beach State for 12 years, compiling a 325-71 record, and guiding her team to ten Big West Titles. In 1991, she was selected to lead the University of Arizona and since then has recorded the most wins in Arizona women’s basketball history. Bonvicini is one of the most respected coaches in the game. On February 8, 2007, she became the 18th Division I women’s basketball coach to win 600 games.