Immaculata University
Inducted:
2014
Nickname:
The Mighty Macs
Players:
Theresa Shank Grentz
Marianne Crawford Stanley
Mary Scharff
Judy Marra
Maureen Mooney
Denise Conway
Pat Kehoe
Ann Crawford
Mary Anne Hannigan
Coaches:
Cathy Rush
Immaculata University’s women’s basketball program holds a special place in history as a dominant force during the early years of the sport’s modern era. Coached by Cathy Rush, the Mighty Macs captured three consecutive AIAW national championships from 1972 to 1974, becoming the first dynasty in women’s college basketball.
Competing without athletic scholarships, state-of-the-art facilities, or national exposure, Immaculata’s teams relied on discipline, teamwork, and determination to revolutionize the women’s game. Their success helped pave the way for the NCAA’s sponsorship of women’s sports and inspired future generations of female athletes.
Recognized for their groundbreaking impact and championship excellence, the 1972–1974 Mighty Macs were collectively inducted into the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014 as Team.
Awards and Records:
- Three consecutive national championships (1972–1974)
- Coached by Hall of Famer Cathy Rush
- First dynasty in women’s college basketball
- Hall of Fame Inductee (Contributors, 2014)
Team Stats:
National Championships:
3 (1972, 1973, 1974)
Winning Streak:
35 consecutive victories