Emily Ryan: From Cyclone Point Guard to Assistant Coach
The Iowa State women's basketball team has promoted Emily Ryan to assistant coach for the upcoming 2026-27 season. Ryan, a former standout point guard for the Cyclones, brings her experience and knowledge of the game to the coaching staff. Head coach Bill Fennelly expressed his excitement about Ryan's new role, highlighting her impact as a player and her dedication to the program. With a successful playing career that included multiple NCAA Tournament appearances and impressive statistical achievements, Ryan is poised to continue contributing to the team's success from the sidelines.
During her time as a graduate assistant last season, Ryan worked closely with the team's point guards, sharing her insights and expertise gained from playing under Fennelly's system. Her on-court performance as a player solidified her legacy as one of the best point guards in Iowa State history, setting records for assists, steals, and blocks. Ryan's accomplishments include ranking seventh in NCAA women's basketball history for assists and being one of only three players to achieve over 1,500 points, 900 assists, and 600 rebounds in a career. Her leadership and skills were instrumental in the Cyclones' success on the court, culminating in a Sweet 16 appearance in 2022 and a Big 12 Women's Basketball Championship run in 2023.
Throughout her five seasons with the Cyclones, Ryan earned numerous accolades, including All-Big 12 honors, selection to tournament teams, and recognition on prestigious award watch lists. Her performance both athletically and academically was recognized with a College Sports Communicators Third Team Academic All-American award in 2024-25. Ryan's dedication to the sport and her studies led to her earning a bachelor's degree in kinesiology from Iowa State University. As she transitions into her new role as assistant coach, Ryan's passion for the game and commitment to the Iowa State women's basketball program will continue to inspire and guide the team towards future success.