Full Breakdown
Boston College Women’s Basketball Coach Joanna Bernabei-McNamee Not Retained After Disappointing Season
3/2/2026, 12:54:32 PM
Disappointing Season Performance
The Boston College women's basketball team concluded the 2022-2023 season with a record of 5-26, marking a .161 winning percentage, the lowest in the program's history. The Eagles tied for last place in the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) with a conference record of 1-17, failing to qualify for the ACC tournament alongside Southern Methodist University (SMU) and Pittsburgh. This season was particularly challenging, highlighted by a 20-game losing streak that began on November 28 and ended with a victory over SMU on February 19, which was also the team's only win in the conference and on the road.
Coaching Tenure and Achievements
Joanna Bernabei-McNamee served as the head coach for the Eagles for eight seasons, amassing a record of 113 wins and 132 losses overall, with a 43-94 record in the ACC. She was initially hired in April 2018 after a successful stint at the University of Albany, where she had garnered attention for her coaching abilities. Notably, she was named ACC Coach of the Year during the 2019-2020 season when the Eagles achieved a 20-11 record and advanced in the conference tournament. The team also reached the Sweet 16 of the Women’s NIT in the 2021-2022 season. However, the program has not participated in the NCAA Tournament since 2006, the year it joined the ACC.
Official Statements
Following the conclusion of the season, Boston College announced that Bernabei-McNamee would not receive a contract extension. Athletic Director Blake James expressed gratitude for her contributions, stating, “I want to thank Joanna for her contributions to the Boston College women’s basketball program during her eight years as an Eagle, as she had a tremendous impact on so many young women who have gone on to do great things. It is simply time for a change and we wish Joanna and her family the very best in the future.”
Criticism & Opposition
The decision to part ways with Bernabei-McNamee has drawn mixed reactions. While some supporters acknowledge her positive impact on players' development, critics point to the team's lack of success and the prolonged losing streak as justifications for the change in leadership.
What's Next
As Boston College moves forward, the search for a new head coach will be critical in reshaping the women's basketball program. The university aims to revitalize the team and improve its competitive standing within the ACC, seeking a leader who can foster both player development and on-court success.
