Illinois women’s coach steps down

Grentz compiled an impressive 671-311 record in 33 years as a collegiate head coach, with the last 12 spent at Illinois. The Fighting Illini went 210-156 under Grentz, advancing to the postseason in 10 of 12 seasons.

"I thank Theresa Grentz for her outstanding contributions to our women’s basketball program over the past 12 seasons," said Illinois director of athletics Ron Guenther. "She is responsible for putting Illinois on the national map for women’s basketball and finishes her career as the school’s all-time winningest coach. Theresa and I have had discussions over the last month and she has made a decision to look at other career options. Theresa has been an exceptional representative of the university in the community and throughout the nation, and a terrific leader among women. Her hiring in 1995 raised the bar for women’s basketball in the Big Ten Conference."

"I would like to express my gratitude to Ron Guenther for his direction, guidance and his friendship. It has been a marvelous working relationship," said Grentz. "I thank the University of Illinois, the Big Ten Conference, the outstanding fans in our community and the wonderful staff who have worked with me throughout the years. "

After graduating from Immaculata in 1974, Grentz got her start as a part-time head coach at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia. Grentz led the Hawks to two winning seasons before she was hired by Rutgers in 1976.

Grentz made her mark guiding the Scarlet Knights, posted a 434-150 record in 19 seasons at Rutgers, including nine consecutive NCAA Tournament appearances from 1986-94 and the 1982 AIAW National Championship. She was inducted into the Women’s Basketball Hall of Fame in 2001.

"I know there is still something out there for me, whether it be as a collegiate or professional coach, a position in the academic world, working with women’s issues, or, possibly even politics," added Grentz. "I feel I can make a difference in some professional way. Coaching has provided me a very broad-based horizon, insight, perception and a dynamic way of looking at things. Winston Churchill once said `Change is the price of survival.’"