11/13/2026
Joanna (Usher) Murphy played for the UC Irvine women’s basketball team from 2002-2006. She graduated with a bachelor’s degree in economics and a minor in accounting. After earning a master’s degree from USC, Murphy stayed in Orange County to work in public accounting. She then moved back home to Arizona, continuing her professional career before becoming a stay-at-home mom of six kids.
What made you choose UC Irvine?
I chose UC Irvine for the family atmosphere on the team and the excellent academics — not to mention the wonderful location close to the beach.
What is your favorite memory from your time at UCI?
All of the different basketball road trips and adventures with my teammates. One road trip that especially stands out is from my freshman year. On Thanksgiving Day, we were flying to a tournament in New Mexico and had a layover in Phoenix (where I'm from). I had time to go out of security and meet up with my entire family (grandparents included) to give them hugs and collect some homemade treats for my teammates and coaches. As a freshman being away from home, it meant so much to be able to see them all on Thanksgiving even though it was for a short time.
What was your career path after you graduated?
I went on to obtain a Master of Accounting at the University of Southern California and then worked in public accounting at KPMG in Orange County for a few years. I moved back to Arizona and worked in various corporate accounting and finance roles before becoming a stay at home mom.
How did UCI help prepare you for your post-collegiate journey?
The discipline of being a collegiate athlete helped immensely after graduating from UCI. I had the drive to succeed and accomplish the tasks placed before me both in my personal and professional life.
What advice do you have for current and future Anteaters?
Enjoy your college years because they will be over before you know it. Spend time growing in areas outside of basketball to help you be a more well-rounded individual. Most importantly -- go to class, get to know your professors, and work hard to get good grades. Student comes before athlete!
