Head Coach James Boney (3rd season)
College: Montclair State University (1999)
Major: Physical Education and Health
James Boney returns for his third season at Rutgers-Camden during the 2024-25 scholastic year, continuing his work to rebuild a program which hasn’t had a winning season since the 2018-19 campaign. With an influx of new talent and a deeper roster, Boney is confident his third time around will be the charm that breaks that long spell.
In his first year with the Scarlet Raptors, Boney’s team posted a 4-21 record during a season that was highlighted by Jalissa Pitts joining the 1,000-point club for her illustrious career. Pitts became Boney’s first all-conference player, earning New Jersey Athletic Conference Second Team honors and was one of five Scarlet Raptors to capture NJAC Academic Honorable Mention.
Boney saw his team produce another 1,000-point scorer during the 2023-24 campaign, as Rahzirah Blocker reached the milestone on her way to NJAC Second Team recognition. Both Blocker and Jania Pitts earned NJAC Academic Honorable Mention, but a small, inexperienced roster and several injuries led to a 1-24 season.
Boney’s Rutgers-Camden record
Boney has coached women’s basketball at numerous schools in New Jersey, including a pair of NJAC programs prior to joining Rutgers-Camden. He was named the Scarlet Raptors’ head coach in September 2022, after serving as an assistant coach with the Saint Peter’s University women’s basketball team for four years. He helped the Peacocks reach the 2021 MAAC Tournament finals and the 2022 MAAC Tournament quarterfinals. He recruited and developed seven All-MAAC selections and his duties included scouting and player development.
Prior to his time at Saint Peter’s, Boney served as the head coach of the Cumberland County College (CCC) women’s basketball program from 2011-2017. He won over 100 games at CCC, while leading his team to four straight Region XIX playoff appearances and a Region XIX Championship in 2015. During the 2015 season, the Dukes finished with a 25-32 record and were ranked No. 4 nationally. Boney was named Region XIX and District E Coach of the Year in 2015. He produced eight All-Region XIX selections, 12 all-conference honorees, one All-American – Alicia Cox in 2012 – and three academic All-Americans.
Boney started his coaching career in the NJAC at Montclair State University in 2001. He spent four years with the Red Hawks as an assistant coach to his mentor, Jaime Hoffman. He also spent two years as an assistant coach at Kean University (2006-07 and 2007-08), helping the Cougars post a combined 55-8 record, win two conference titles and earn two NCAA Elite Eight appearances.
Originally from Egg Harbor Township, Boney attended Montclair State University, earning his degree in Physical Education and Health in 1999.
