Pat Coyle

Pat Coyle, born on September 5, 1960, is a former professional basketball player from the United States, known for her exceptional skill and athleticism on the court. Coyle played the guard position and had a notable collegiate career at the University of Iowa, where she earned All-American honors and led the team to multiple successful seasons. After college, she was selected in the inaugural Women's Professional Basketball League (WPBL) draft in 1978, marking the beginning of her professional career.

Coyle played for the New Jersey Gems during the WPBL’s existence, making significant contributions to the team's performance and popularity. She was known for her scoring ability, defensive prowess, and leadership qualities, which helped elevate the level of women's basketball at the time. After the WPBL ceased operations, she continued to influence the sport through coaching and mentoring young athletes.

Beyond her playing career, Coyle has left a lasting legacy in women's basketball as both a player and a coach. She transitioned into coaching at various levels, including stints at the collegiate level, where she focused on developing talent and promoting the women's game. Coyle's impact on the sport has been recognized through numerous accolades and her commitment to empowering the next generation of female basketball players.