For over two decades, Karl Smesko has been the face of FGCU women's basketball, building the Eagles into a powerhouse in the NCAA Division I program.
Known for his strategic brilliance and relentless focus, Smesko has cultivated a winning culture that has consistently put FGCU on the national radar.
Now, as he takes on a new challenge with the Atlanta Dream , it’s a perfect time to reflect on his top five wins with the Eagles—a legacy of unforgettable games that define his impact on FGCU and the women's college basketball altogether.
1.) Eagles make a statement in the opening round of the 2023 March Madness Tournament
Eagles guard Maddie Antenucci entered the contest vs the Washington State Cougars averaging 4.1 points on the season, but that didn't discourage her from shining.
In the third quarter, Antenucci smacked FGCU's second three-pointer of the third quarter for a 43-38 lead. Within just 35 seconds, she splashed her another three to extend the lead 46-40. Her third straight three put her at 12 points within just a minute and a half. FGCU fans erupted as the Cougars called a timeout. Washington never recovered as FGCU won 74-63.
2.) FGCU gets f irst official Division I victory over Florida International
The Eagles became a full Division I program in 2011 when they went on to compile a perfect conference record of 18-0. Before getting there, FGCU picked up their first win as an official Division I program.
Nov. 14, 2011, FGCU went on the road to visit Florida International. In a close battle, Eagles' Nicoya Jackson and Kelsey Jacobson put the team on their back as they erupted for a combined 51 points. FGCU went on to take the victory 80-72 over the Panthers, sparking the start of a dynasty in Fort Myers.
3.) FGCU rains threes, scrapes by Virginia Tech
Current WNBA guard Kierstan Bell made her presence known in the opening round of the 2022 March Madness Tournament as she posted 22 points, eight rebounds, two assists and three steals.
The Eagles collectively shot a near 40% from beyond the arc in a tight-knit matchup, which was enough to scrape past the Hokies 84-81.
4.) No. 7 FGCU advances to the Second Round of the 2015 March Madness Tournament
The Florida Gulf Coast Eagles punched their ticket to the big dance coming off an electric 31-3 season. The ASUN Champions were slated as the No. 7 seed in the tournament, opening up against No. 10 Oklahoma State.
FGCU shot a lights-out 45.2% from the field, compared to their opponent's 37.1%. Fueled by guard Kaneisha Atwater's 26-point performance, the Eagles bested the Cowgirls 75-67.
5.) No. 12 FGCU tops No. 5 Missouri Tigers in First Round of March Madness
Karl Smesko led the Eagles to a 31-5 2017-18 season, capturing yet another ASUN Championship - sending the Green and Blue back to the main stage.
Eagles' China Dow scored 21 points and played stingy defense in the paint against Missouri star Sophie Cunningham, and No. 12 seed Florida Gulf Coast pulled off an upset in the Lexington Regional with an 80-70.
DOWNLOAD the free NBC2 News app for your latest news and weather alerts.