Cranford, NJ - UCNJ announces true legend, Marbely Montas, steps down as Head Coach of the Women’s Basketball team, closing an extraordinary chapter in the college’s athletic history — one defined by passion, perseverance, and a legacy of winning. Montas leaves behind one of the most decorated coaching tenures in program history. 

 

 

 

Montas’ journey with UCNJ began in 2005 as a student-athlete and was quickly recognized, earning her a spot on the prestigious Junior College/Community College (JC/CC) Kodak/WBCA All-America Basketball Team. After two dominant seasons with the Lady Owls and a degree in Business Administration in hand, she continued her basketball and academic journey with a full scholarship to Division I, Monmouth University.

 

Driven by her desire to succeed both on and off the court, Montas earned her Bachelor of Science in Health Studies, before joining the Dominican Republic National Team, where she made an immediate impact as the second-leading scorer. Her journey also included representing her country at the Centro Americanos in Puerto Rico, where the team took home a silver medal.

 

Never one to stop learning, Montas attended Kean University to earn her master’s degree in Business Administration. In 2011, UCNJ welcomed her back — this time on the sidelines — as the women’s basketball assistant coach. Over the next seasons, her leadership helped guide the team to six Region XIX Tournament appearances, and in 2011-2012, the Lady Owls were crowned GSAC and Region XIX Champions.

 

In 2017, Marbely was named UCNJ Women’s Basketball Head Coach and under her guidance, the program soared to new heights, including:

In total, her teams made consistent postseason appearances and became a perennial powerhouse in NJCAA Division II women's basketball world. Beyond the wins, Marbely built a culture of integrity, excellence, and unity. Her players not only left with trophies and rings, but with a sense of discipline and confidence that will carry them through life.

 

A member of both the Phi Theta Kappa Honors Society and the Union College Hall of Fame, Marbely credits Cheryl Bell and Bob Firestone as her most influential coaches.

 

Reflecting on her journey, Coach Montas shares:

“After 8 incredible seasons with Union Women’s Basketball, it is with a full heart and immense gratitude that I say farewell.

 

First to the Owl Nation, you are the heartbeat of our program. Your amazing support, the energy you brought to each game, and your belief in our team made every moment on the court unforgettable. Thank you for cheering us on!

 

To the coaching staff, you are more than colleagues, you are family. Thank you for your tireless dedication, your passion for the game, and your commitment to our players. Together we built a culture of hard work, respect, dedication, and accountability. I am so proud of what we have achieved together.

 

To the administration and athletic department, thank you for trusting me with this program and providing the resources and support to allowed us to grow. Your commitment to our student-athletes’ success set the foundation for everything we accomplished.

 

To every player who wore the Union on their chest, you are truly the heart of this program and watching everyone grow as athletes, students, and leaders has been the greatest privilege of my career.”

 

As she closes this unforgettable chapter as head coach, the community thanks Coach Montas for her incredible dedication and immeasurable impact.

 

Stay tune for an exclusive interview on why The Marbely Dynasty legacy will live on forever.