At halftime of today's women's basketball game, The University of Scranton celebrated the 40th anniversary of the Lady Royals' historic 1985 national championship. The team, led by head coach
Mike Strong, defeated New Rochelle 68-59 to capture the program's first national title, finishing the season with a 31-1 record and a 29-game winning streak.
The reunion, held at the Long Center, brought together former players, coaches, and staff to reflect on their incredible journey. Those recognized included:
- Dr. Mary (Speicher) Gaspari, team manager
- Marilena (Bucca) Hanlon, team manager
- John Robertson, athletic trainerÂ
- Jeannie Kowalski, athletic trainer
- Peg Garrick, assistant coach
As for the players:
- Patti (Brophy) Betti, freshman guard
- Michelle (Lenhoff) Woodbridge, freshman guard
- Patti Craig, sophomore guard
- Tracy (Schultz) Sullivan, sophomore forward
- Dr. Cathy (Wallen) Guzzi, sophomore guard
- Patty Fulton, sophomore guard
- Sharon (Barone) Mayer, sophomore forward
- Dr. Una (Espenkotter) Brewer, sophomore forward
- Grace Hickey, sophomore center
- Shelley (Ritz) Buntz, sophomore guard
- Lee Anne (Grow) Wagaman, junior forward
- Mary Leedy, senior guard
- Shelley (Parks) Banta, junior center
- Deanna (Kyle) Klingman, senior guard
The celebration culminated in honoring head coach Mike Strong, who retired after 35 seasons as the winningest NCAA Division III women's basketball coach with 815 victories. The event was a heartfelt reunion, not only commemorating the team's on-court success but also the lasting friendships and bonds formed over the years. The legacy of the 1985 national champions remains a pillar of Lady Royals basketball, inspiring generations of future players.
