Rutgers Hall of Fame women’s basketball coach C-Vivien Stringer announces her retirement after 50 seasons

Legendary women’s basketball coach C. Vivian Stringer is retiring after 50 years and 1,055 wins as head coach, it was announced Saturday.

A Naismith Hall of Famer, Stringer guided his teams to 28 NCAA championship games and four Final Four anchors throughout his career at Cheyney State, Iowa and since 1995 at Rutgers.

Stringer’s retirement will be effective Sept. 1.

“My life has been defined by training and I have been on this journey for more than five decades,” Stringer said in a press release. “It’s rare for someone to do what they love for so long and I’ve been lucky enough to do it. so.” . “Having recently celebrated the first women’s team Final Four at Cheyney State University, where it all began, it was clear to me that I have been on this team for a long time. It’s important to step back and challenge others to step up.” and carry this forward.

“This was the hardest decision of my life, but I thank God for allowing me to do what I love so much. I am ready to start my new journey and spend more time with my family, children and grandchildren. I am truly blessed to have so many wonderful people in my life.”

Stringer, 74, was not a coach at Rutgers for the 2021-22 season due to COVID-19 concerns, as assistant manager Tim Whiteman took over. The school said the national search for a replacement for Stringer would begin immediately.