THE OFFICIAL HOME OF
THE PITTSBURGH PIONEERS
COACH TANYA
Tanya Garner is a respected leader in Pennsylvania basketball, with a legacy built on both standout athletic achievement and a deep commitment to developing young talent. From her record-setting high school and college careers to her impactful roles as a coach and mentor, Tanya’s journey reflects a lifelong dedication to the game. Today, she continues to inspire the next generation through her work on the sidelines and in the community.
About Coach Tanya
Tanya Garner is a name that resonates deeply in Pittsburgh’s basketball community—a dynamic player turned impactful coach with a lifelong commitment to the game. Her journey began at West Mifflin High School, where she played from 1983 to 1987 and left an indelible mark by scoring 2,011 career points. During her senior season, she led the WPIAL in scoring, averaging an impressive 31 points per game. Her standout performance earned her a spot on the prestigious Post-Gazette Fab 5, honoring the top high school players in the region.
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Garner’s talent on the court earned her a scholarship to Penn State University, where she became a four-year contributor and a key figure in the program’s success. She amassed 1,538 points during her college career, placing her 12th on the all-time scoring list in Penn State women’s basketball history. One of her most iconic moments came during the 1991 Atlantic 10 Tournament, where she was named MVP after hitting the game-winning shot in the championship game against St. Joseph’s.
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Following her collegiate career, Tanya shifted her focus to coaching and giving back to the sport that shaped her. From 1998 to 2001, she returned to West Mifflin as an assistant coach for the girls' basketball team, mentoring young athletes on the same court where her own legacy began. She later joined the coaching staff at Duquesne University as an assistant under Dan Durkin, gaining experience at the collegiate level and further developing her coaching style.
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Today, Tanya Garner continues to make a lasting impact as the head coach at Nazareth Prep High School in Pittsburgh, PA, where she is known for her leadership, passion, and ability to inspire her players. In addition to her high school coaching role, she also serves as the head coach of the Pittsburgh Pioneers AAU basketball team, helping to guide the next generation of talent both on and off the court.
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With a career that spans elite playing accolades and meaningful coaching achievements, Tanya Garner remains a powerful presence in Pennsylvania basketball—a mentor, a competitor, and a true ambassador of the game.
Contact
Coaches and players interested in joining the Pittsburgh Pioneers AAU basketball team or connecting with Coach Tanya are encouraged to reach out. She’s always open to collaboration and team opportunities. Contact her via phone or email to connect.
(412) 863-0055