Eastern Connecticut State University

Joyce Williams-Turner, one of New England’s most dominant inside players in the mid-1970s, is the second individual to be accorded Hall of Fame recognition primarily for playing contributions to the women’s basketball program. A starter from Day 1, the durable six-foot center missed only one of 83 games, averaging 10.9 points and sharing primary rebounding chores with Hall of Famer Kathy Regan for three years. The Stratford native played on Hall of Fame  Bob Miller’s first four teams, helping the Warriors to an overall record of 66-18 (78.6 percent), and to their first two AIAW tournament appearances. As a junior, Williams helped an upstart program to its first regional title and a spot in the AIAW national tournament, averaging 11.0 points and contributing as a top rebounder. In the regional championship win over second-seeded Oneonta State that year, Williams led all scorers with a career-high 26 points to go along with 12 rebounds. Upon graduation, Williams became the first member of the program to sign a professional contract, playing one year in Arlon, Belgium.