Iona University Athletics

The Gaels compete in NCAA Division I, meaning serious athletic competition with full scholarships and regional television coverage. With 446 total athletes across 18 varsity sports, roughly 16% of Iona's 2,731 students participate in intercollegiate athletics. The university awards $6.2 million annually in athletic scholarships. Iona competes in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference alongside regional rivals like Manhattan College and Fairfield University. Basketball drives the school's athletic identity, with the men's program reaching multiple NCAA tournaments and producing legendary coach Jim Valvano. The Hynes Athletic Center serves as home court where students pack games during conference play. Football was discontinued in 2009, making basketball the marquee sport that unites campus. Other strong programs include baseball and track and field, which regularly compete for MAAC championships.