The championship legacy of Florida Gulf Coast University women’s basketball is secured with Raina Harmon from the University of Iowa signing on as head coach.
“It’s a great day for FGCU to welcome Raina Harmon to the Nest as the next leader of our women’s basketball program,” said Colin Hargis, FGCU director of athletics. “Harmon’s energy, passion and commitment to student-athletes combined with her coaching experience will champion the continued growth and success for the FGCU women’s basketball program.”
During eight years with Iowa serving as assistant coach, Harmon cultivated a culture of excellence with a 208-63 record and a combined five Big Ten Conference titles, solidifying the team’s winning pedigree and cementing the Hawkeyes’ reputation as a women’s basketball powerhouse. Her other achievements include coaching and developing several WNBA draft picks and the 2024 AP & Naismith Player of the Year, eight berths into the NCAA tournament and back-to-back National Championship appearances.
“I am absolutely honored to be named the next head coach at Florida Gulf Coast University. This position is one of the best jobs in the country, and I am grateful for the opportunity to lead such a prestigious program,” Harmon said.
“Thank you to President (Aysegul) Timur, Colin Hargis, Nicole Neal and Lauren Leister for believing in my vision for the next era of FGCU women’s basketball. This program has a standard of excellence, and I can’t wait to build upon that legacy as I commit to developing our student-athletes on and off the court. I look forward to connecting with the FGCU community, our fans and most importantly, our players as we embark on this journey together.”
Prior to Iowa, Harmon spent two years at Michigan as director of women’s basketball operations before coaching at her alma mater, Central Michigan University. As the assistant coach at CMU, she helped the Chippewas punch their ticket to the Big Dance in 2013.
Harmon will be officially introduced to the FGCU community April 8 during an invitation-only event that will also be available as a livestream on FGCU’s YouTube channel. Season ticket holders and Eagles Club members will receive information about an exclusive meet and greet with Harmon.
For more information on season tickets, visit FGCUAthletics.com or call the ticket office at 866-324-8449.