Iowa State women's basketball coach Fennelly to retire

Cyclones' all-time winningest coach to step down after 27 seasons

Fennelly has led Iowa State to 16 NCAA Tournaments, eight Sweet Sixteens, and two Elite Eights

Iowa State women's basketball coach Bill Fennelly announced his retirement on Monday, ending a 27-year career in Ames.

Fennelly, 65, is the Cyclones' all-time winningest coach with a record of 658-305. He led Iowa State to 16 NCAA Tournaments, eight Sweet Sixteens, and two Elite Eights.

"This is a bittersweet day for me," Fennelly said in a statement. "I love Iowa State and I love coaching the Cyclones. But after 27 years, I feel it's time for me to step down and let someone else lead this program."

Fennelly's retirement is effective immediately. Associate head coach Jodi Steyer will serve as interim head coach for the remainder of the season.

"Bill Fennelly is a legend at Iowa State," said athletic director Jamie Pollard. "He has built this program into a national power and he has been a great mentor to his players and coaches."

Fennelly began his coaching career at Central College in Pella, Iowa, in 1983. He led the Dutch to three NAIA national championships before taking over at Iowa State in 1995.

Fennelly's Cyclones won the Big 12 regular season championship in 2000 and 2001. They also won the Big 12 Tournament championship in 2000.

Fennelly was named the Big 12 Coach of the Year four times. He was also named the Naismith National Coach of the Year in 2000.

Fennelly is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame and the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame.

Fennelly's retirement is a major loss for Iowa State women's basketball. He is one of the most successful coaches in the history of the sport.

But Fennelly leaves behind a legacy of success and a program that is poised for continued success.