UCNJ Athletics Remembers Hall of Fame Basketball Great Teresa "TC” Morris Flynn

Cranford, NJ - UCNJ Department of Athletics is saddened to learn of the passing of former women's basketball standout Teresa "TC" Morris Flynn, one of the most decorated student-athletes in the history of UCNJ Athletics. Flynn passed away suddenly on May 14, 2026, at the age of 65.

A native of Roselle, New Jersey, Flynn graduated from Abraham Clark High School before arriving at Union College in 1978 on a full athletic scholarship. Though she stood just 5-foot-2, "TC" quickly became a giant on the basketball court, establishing herself as one of the premier players in the nation and helping elevate women's athletics during a transformative era for collegiate sports.

Known for her relentless competitiveness, court vision, and leadership, Flynn earned All-American honors along with National and Regional First Team recognition during her two seasons with the Lady Owls. She averaged an astounding 22.3 points per game in an era before the three-point line existed, making her scoring accomplishments even more remarkable.

Nearly five decades later, her name remains etched throughout the UCNJ record book. Flynn still holds program records for career points (1,301), assists in a game (20), assists in a season (315), assists in a two-year career (514), steals in a game (16), steals in a season (193), and career steals (367).

Her brilliance extended beyond season-long statistics. In February 1980, Flynn tied a school record by scoring 39 points in a victory over Delaware Tech-Stanton, showcasing the offensive firepower that made her one of the most feared guards in the region. Throughout her collegiate career, she was celebrated for her ability to control every aspect of the game, combining elite scoring with exceptional passing and defensive instincts.

One of the defining moments of Flynn's athletic career came when she became the first Union College woman athlete to be named an All-American. Honored at the Union County Hot Stove League Dinner, New York Yankees pitcher, Tommy John, presented an award for the significant milestone for women's athletics in Union County and highlighted the growing impact of female student-athletes throughout the region.

Her success at Union College opened the door to even greater opportunities. Flynn continued her playing career at Fairleigh Dickinson University on athletic scholarship, where she earned additional accolades while excelling both on the court and in the

classroom. A Dean's List student-athlete at both institutions, she graduated with a degree in Business.

Flynn’s basketball journey reached the national stage when she earned an invitation to the 1980 United States Olympic Trials. The opportunity to compete among the nation's elite players remained one of the proudest achievements of her distinguished athletic career.

In recognition of her extraordinary contributions to the program, Union College retired her No. 10 jersey, making her one of only a handful of student-athletes in school history to receive such an honor. Today, her jersey remains a symbol of excellence and serves as a lasting reminder of the standard she established for generations of Lady Owl basketball players.

While her accomplishments on the court are legendary, those who knew Flynn remember a devoted mother, wife, teammate, and friend. She often spoke fondly of her childhood, where her parents paved the family's backyard and transformed it into a gathering place for the neighborhood. Competing alongside her three brothers, she developed the toughness, determination, and love of sports that would define her life.

Following her playing career, Flynn dedicated herself to her family, raising four children alongside her husband, Jerry, while helping build and support the family business. Her commitment to hard work and commitment mirrored the same qualities that made her successful as a student-athlete.

Teresa "TC" Flynn Morris leaves behind a legacy that extends far beyond wins, records, and accolades. She was a trailblazer for women's athletics, a role model for future generations of student-athletes, and one of the most influential figures in the history of UCNJ Athletics.

The entire UCNJ Athletics family extends its deepest condolences to her family, former teammates, friends, and loved ones.