Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) Names Head Women’s Basketball Coach Eileen Copenhaver To Hall of Fame
The Illinois Basketball Coaches Association (IBCA) has announced that Head Women’s Basketball Coach Eileen Copenhaver will be inducted into its Hall of Fame, a prestigious honor recognizing her lasting impact on the sport and her unwavering commitment to excellence.
The IBCA Hall of Fame celebrates individuals who have shaped basketball across the state of Illinois, honoring the game’s history while inspiring future generations. Inductees are selected for their achievements, leadership, and dedication to growing the sport at every level – qualities that have defined Coach Copenhaver’s career for four decades.
“I’m truly honored to be selected for the IBCA Hall of Fame. When I look at the past and present inductees, it’s humbling to be included among so many people who have given so much to this game and to their student-athletes. This recognition reflects the many players, coaches, and colleagues I’ve been fortunate to work alongside throughout my career. I’m grateful to be part of a basketball community in Illinois that values relationships, growth, and opportunity.”
Coach Copenhaver’s résumé reflects both sustained success and meaningful influence. In 2025, she was named IBCA District 9 Co-Coach of the Year, adding to a long list of professional accolades. In 2023, she reached a historic milestone by earning her 300th career victory at PC, a total that has continued to grow. This season, her team has posted an impressive 30-4 record, underscoring her continued excellence and competitive leadership.
PC Athletic Director Doug Ternik praised Coach Copenhaver’s impact on the program and the institution as a whole.
“Eileen Copenhaver represents everything you hope for in a coach – competitive excellence, integrity, and a genuine commitment to her student-athletes,” said Ternik. “Her influence reaches far beyond the basketball court, and this Hall of Fame honor is a well-earned recognition of the legacy she continues to build.”
Beyond wins and awards, Coach Copenhaver’s legacy is rooted in her advocacy for women’s athletics and her dedication to developing student-athletes on and off the court. Her assistant coaches – Michelle Karr Bommersbach, Jenna Maziur, Pat Brankin and Chrystal Gregory – highlighted her transformative impact:
“For 40 years, Eileen has been a force for elevating female athletes, fought for equal funding in the sport, and helped players reach their fullest potential. Her enthusiasm and passion for the game is contagious. She makes everyone around her better by believing in them and pushing them to reach their fullest potential. There is nobody more deserving than her for this amazing recognition, and we are lucky to work alongside her.”
Coach Copenhaver’s induction into the IBCA Hall of Fame is a fitting tribute to a career defined by leadership, integrity, and a relentless belief in her players. Her influence will continue to be felt across Illinois basketball for generations to come.