Ruth Jones

Ruth Jones (April 26, 1946 – July 5, 1986) was the head women's basketball coach for Purdue University from 1976 until her death in July 1986. She had the longest tenure as a Purdue women's basketball coach until Sharon Versyp, who surpassed her 10-year tenure in 2017. In 1986 Jones was selected as the Big Ten Conference Women's Basketball Coach of the Year. Early life and education Ruth Jones was born in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania in 1946. She earned a bachelor's degree in education from Ashland College, a master's degree in physical education from Murray State University, and a doctorate of education from Ohio State University. Coaching career Murray State Jones started her coaching career at her alma mater Murray State for the 1968–69 season. She finished that year with a 6–1 record.