EDISON—Former TCNJ women’s basketball player Hillary Klimowicz was honored at the New Jersey Sports Writers Association 74th Anniversary Banquet held on January 31. Klimowicz, who received the organization’s College Women’s Basketball Player of the Year Award, was among a star-studded field of honorees which included New Jersey Devils President and General Manger Lou Lamoriello, Tennessee Titans wide receiver Kenny Britt, Detroit Tiger pitcher Rick Porcello, and former Seton Hall and NBA standout Terry Dehere.
A two-time All-American and NJAC Player of the Year, Klimowicz capped her career in 2008-09 by being selected as the NCAA Division III National Player of the Year after leading her team to the Final Four and a national third place showing – the best finish of any women’s basketball team in the history of the NJAC.
She began her career at St. Joseph’s University in Philadelphia and was named Atlantic 10 Rookie of the Year as a freshman. Upon deciding that she wanted to focus on more than just basketball during her collegiate experience, she transferred to TCNJ where her story was chronicled in Sports Illustrated.
In three years at TCNJ, she racked up more than 1,400 points and 800 rebounds despite playing just three seasons. She also posted a 3.57 grade point average while earning Academic All-District honors.
Klimowicz impressed the capacity crowd during her acceptance speech by focusing on the numerous TCNJ team accomplishments during her career as opposed to her own individual accolades. She also announced during the speech that she has signed with McGivley and Kluger Sports and Entertainment Group with hopes of pursuing professional playing opportunities overseas.
Klimowicz, who is currently serving as assistant coach of the TCNJ program, was joined at the 2010 NJSWA Banquet by TCNJ head coach Dawn Henderson, her parents Larry & Judy, and her sister Anna Marie.