Former Iowa State Star Ashley Joens Named Ankeny Girls Basketball Coach

Joens takes over Ankeny High School program after standout college career.

Apr. 7, 2026 at 2:38am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A cubist-style painting depicting a high school basketball game, with the players and court broken down into sharp, overlapping geometric shapes in navy, green, and orange, conveying the dynamic energy of the sport.Ankeny High School's new girls basketball coach Ashley Joens brings a decorated college career to her hometown program.Ankeny Today

Former Iowa State standout Ashley Joens has been hired as the new head coach of the Ankeny High School girls basketball team. Joens, who finished her college career in 2023 as Iowa State's all-time leading scorer and rebounder, replaces Nate Tobey, who is stepping down to take a break from coaching.

Why it matters

Joens' hiring represents a homecoming of sorts, as she returns to the high school ranks after a decorated college career. Her experience and success at the collegiate level could help elevate the Ankeny program and provide valuable mentorship to the team's players.

The details

Joens is currently working as a long-term substitute teacher in Iowa City. During her five-year career at Iowa State, she amassed 3,060 points, the most in school history, and was also the Cyclones' career leader in rebounds.

  • Joens was announced as Ankeny's new head coach on April 7, 2026.
  • Joens finished her college playing career at Iowa State in 2023.

The players

Ashley Joens

A former standout player at Iowa State University, where she finished as the school's all-time leading scorer and rebounder.

Nate Tobey

The outgoing head coach of the Ankeny High School girls basketball team, who is stepping down to take a break from coaching.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We're thrilled to have Ashley Joens join our program and lead our girls basketball team. Her experience and success at the collegiate level will be invaluable as we look to take the next step.”

— Ankeny High School Athletic Director

The takeaway

Joens' hiring represents an exciting new chapter for the Ankeny High School girls basketball program, as they bring in a proven winner and leader to guide the team's future success.