Welcome back! Ashley Robinson has rejoined the University of Pennsylvania women’s basketball staff as an assistant coach, having previously worked with the Quakers in 2017-18. A Saint Joseph’s graduate, Robinson returns to Philadelphia with three years of collegiate coaching experience under her belt, most recently at Northeastern University.
“I cannot begin to express how ecstatic I am to be back home and to once again have the opportunity to coach at the University of Pennsylvania,” said Robinson. “I was truly honored when Coach McLaughlin asked me to join the staff. The history alone of this program speaks volumes about the culture of tradition and dedication that coaches and players have created. I am excited to be a part of such a highly regarded program and the experiences that we will embark upon!”
“I am extremely excited to welcome Ashley back to our coaching staff,” commented head coach Mike McLaughlin. “As a standout player at Saint Joseph’s University, we are excited for the remarkable experience that she brings to the program. With her connections in the Philadelphia and surrounding areas, she will have a crucial part in our local recruiting efforts. On the court, Ashley will play a major role in the growth and development of our post players. Her leadership qualities and enthusiasm both on and off the court will be an incredible asset to our program.”
Robinson’s time with the Red and Blue in 2017-18 saw her join forces with Coach Kelly Killion to guide the Penn post players, helping lead Eleah Parker to unanimous Ivy League Rookie of the Year honors. Penn won 22 games with Robinson on staff, including its second-ever Big 5 championship.
Most recently, Robinson was part of a Northeastern team that went 20-12 last season, including a postseason trip to the WNIT. Her primary responsibilities included post player development, scouting, and recruiting.
During her playing days, Robinson served as team captain for Big-5 rival Saint Joseph’s from 2013-15 and was a varsity letter winner from 2009-2015. She was a part of the 2013 Atlantic-10 Conference championship team and led the Hawks to back-to-back 2013 and 2014 NCAA Division I Tournament appearances. The team also made the National Invitational Tournament three consecutive years from 2010-2012. During that time, Robinson was the recipient of the Patricia Ryan Unsung Hero Award (2014 & 2015) and received the Roosevelt Hunter Community Service Award in 2015.
Robinson earned her degree from Saint Joseph’s University, Ervin K. Haub School of Business in 2013 and went on to earn her Masters from Saint Joseph’s in Business Administration and in Science with a concentration on Managing Human Capital in 2015.
