Red Flash Topple Hornets, 69-60

Saint Francis University women’s basketball secured a hard-fought 69-60 victory over Delaware State on Thursday night, marking their second win of the season. The Red Flash leaned heavily on standout performances from Jade Campbell and Natalie Johnson, who both achieved career-best numbers in the game. With Campbell dominating in the paint and Johnson providing a crucial offensive spark, Saint Francis overcame a tightly contested matchup to claim the win at Memorial Hall in Dover, Delaware.

The game’s defining stretch came in the final five minutes. Leading 58-55, Campbell extended the advantage with a layup, setting the tone for a strong finish. Airah Lavy added a pair of free throws to make it 62-55, but Delaware State quickly responded with a jump shot to trim the lead. Johnson stepped up with a timely jumper to push the margin back to seven, and Yanessa Boyd knocked down free throws to widen the gap to nine points. Another layup by Johnson in the paint, followed by a free throw from Lavy, capped off the late-game surge and put the result beyond doubt.

The Red Flash found ways to create separation throughout the game, starting with a seven-point run in the first quarter. Lavy’s three-pointer ignited the run, and Harris Robinson followed with back-to-back layups to give Saint Francis a 12-6 lead. Delaware State fought back, but Saint Francis continued to respond, particularly in the second quarter. Down 24-20, three-pointers from Johnson and Ineivi Plata pulled the Red Flash even at 26, ensuring the game remained competitive heading into halftime.

Campbell’s impact was felt throughout the contest, especially during critical moments. Late in the third quarter, she converted consecutive layups to break a tie and send Saint Francis into the fourth quarter with a 50-47 lead. Her career-high 17 points came on an efficient 7-of-11 shooting night, and her 19 rebounds—also a career best—were a key factor in the team’s dominant performance on the glass. The Red Flash finished with a season-high 49 rebounds, outpacing Delaware State’s total of 36.

Johnson, the RMU transfer, provided a significant boost off the bench, scoring a career-high 14 points. Her ability to deliver in key situations, including her clutch fourth-quarter jumper, was crucial to the Red Flash’s success. Lavy added 12 points, continuing her streak of consistent offensive contributions, with Thursday marking her fourth game of the season scoring in double digits. Plata contributed with team-high four assists, helping to facilitate the offense in critical stretches.

With the win, Saint Francis improves to 2-8 on the season, with both victories coming on the road. The Red Flash will now turn their attention to their upcoming game against UMBC, set for December 8 at DeGol Arena. The matchup provides an opportunity for Saint Francis to build on Thursday’s success and earn their first home victory of the season. As the team continues to develop, performances like Campbell’s and Johnson’s will be essential in guiding the Red Flash as they move towards NEC play.

Brooke Paquette's Sophomore Surge

In just her second season, Brooke Paquette has emerged as a standout force for Stonehill College, delivering performances that hint at a rapid evolution from promising freshman to impact player. After a solid debut season where an injury-plagued roster could only manage 4 wins, Paquette’s transformation this year has been nothing short of electric.

In Stonehill’s 79-46 victory over Emmanuel College on Thursday, Paquette showed just how much her game has grown over the summer. Scoring 12 of her 14 points in the first half alone, she set the tone for the game, driving Stonehill’s offense with precision and efficiency. Her stat line—4-for-11 from the field, 2-for-6 from three, and a perfect 4-for-4 from the line—highlights her shooting ability, but it’s her all-around contributions that are even more impressive. She dished out a career-best eight assists, grabbed two rebounds, and recorded four steals, all while looking relentlessly energetic on the floor. The Skyhawks were able to change their approach against the overmatched opponent in the second half, or the stat line might have been even more impressive.

The growth was already apparent in Stonehill’s season opener against Rhode Island, where despite the team's loss, Paquette poured in 15 points, went 6-for-14 from the field, and added six assists. She’s showing a knack for taking control of the pace, navigating defenses, and creating scoring opportunities for her teammates. But what’s striking about Paquette’s game right now is her speed. This season, she’s not just appearing to be playing mentally faster—she’s visibly moving faster, making explosive drives to the basket, pulling defenders, and finding the open player. When Emmanuel tried to pressure her with a press defense, she was easily able to get around the first player. This is crucial to opening up Stonehill's offense, as she’s now able to shift seamlessly between roles as a scorer and a facilitator.

Coach Trisha Brown has to be thrilled with Paquette’s early-season performances, which have not only elevated Stonehill’s offensive dynamics directly but is also setting up teammates like Sharn Hayward (16 points against Emmanuel) and Kylie Swider (15 against Rhode Island). As she continues to grow into her role, Paquette is proving to be a player capable of taking charge and creating opportunities, giving Stonehill a potent weapon in their lineup. If these first two games are any indication, Paquette’s sophomore year promises to be one where she fully realizes her potential, playing faster, smarter, and more fearlessly than ever. We might be at the point already where we’ve seen her evolve into the best player on the court in most games. That’s how good Paquette is looking so far.

NEC Blitz Preseason Women’s Basketball First Team

The NEC Blitz Preseason Women’s Basketball First Team highlights five players who are ready to make their mark this season. From power inside to sharp shooting outside, we believe these five players will have a significant impact on their teams and the league as a whole.

C- Josie Hill, Chicago State

F- Bailey Kuhns, Mercyhurst

F- Teneisia Brown, FDU

G- Belle Lanpher, CCSU

G- Abby Conklin, FDU

Here’s why they made our list:

Josie Hill, Center, Chicago State

Josie Hill comes into the NEC after playing one of the toughest independent schedules in the nation, and her ability to handle physical play sets her apart. Her ability to control the paint is going to be a major factor for Chicago State this season. Hill’s combination of size and skill will make her a matchup nightmare for opponents who may not be used to her level of physicality. She’s not just built to take bumps—she’s more likely to give them out this season, and that’s what makes her such a dangerous threat inside.

Chicago State will lean heavily on Hill to anchor both their offense and defense, and we expect her to rise to the occasion. Her ability to finish around the rim and control the boards makes her an automatic candidate for First Team honors. Look for her to assert herself early in conference play and be a consistent force all season long.

Bailey Kuhns, Forward, Mercyhurst

Coming off a stellar sophomore season where she led Mercyhurst in scoring, Bailey Kuhns is another interior player who could dominate the NEC this year. Kuhns, who earned PSAC West Second Team honors last season, brings a level of physicality that could overwhelm many NEC teams. As good as her play was in the PSAC, it might rise to another level She shot 50% from the floor last year and pulled down double-digit rebounds in multiple games, including a career-high 16 boards against Seton Hill. Kuhns’ experience in the PSAC, a league known for its rugged, physical style of play, has prepared her well to handle whatever the NEC throws her way.

Kuhns is built for contact, and this year she’s going to be the one initiating it. Her ability to carve out space in the post and finish through defenders will be critical for Mercyhurst as they transition to Division I. Expect her to lead by example, especially in high-pressure moments, and be a go-to scorer in the clutch.

Teneisia Brown, Forward, FDU

Teneisia Brown brings a balanced skill set to the table, combining scoring, rebounding, and defensive prowess. Last season, she averaged 12.6 points and 8.0 rebounds per game for the Knights, while shooting an impressive 48.4% from the field. Brown is a versatile forward who can score inside, but also thrives on her ability to crash the boards and affect the game defensively.

Brown’s presence in the paint will be crucial for FDU, but her real value lies in her ability to do it all. Whether it’s scoring, defending, or rebounding, she impacts the game in multiple ways. Brown’s well-rounded game makes her one of the most complete players in the league, and her leadership will be key in FDU’s pursuit of a championship this season.

Belle Lanpher, Guard, CCSU

Belle Lanpher was a standout for CCSU last season, earning All-NEC Second Team honors, and she’s back for more in 2024-25. Last year, Lanpher averaged 12.5 points, 2.8 rebounds, and 2.7 assists per game while playing a whopping 33.9 minutes per contest. Known for her ability to take over games, Lanpher scored in double figures in 22 games last season, including an unforgettable 35-point explosion against Fairfield. She’s a fearless competitor.

Lanpher’s ability to handle the ball, create for her teammates, and score from anywhere on the court makes her one of the most dangerous guards in the NEC. She shot 87.8% from the free-throw line last season, showing she’s reliable when the game is on the line. Lanpher is poised for a breakout year, and with her leadership and scoring ability, she’ll be the engine that drives CCSU’s success.

Abby Conklin, Guard, FDU

Abby Conklin is the sharp-shooting guard for FDU who can stretch the floor and cause major problems for opposing defenses. Last season, she averaged 9.8 points per game, but it’s her three-point shooting that really stands out. Conklin hit 35.7% of her shots from beyond the arc, making her one of the most dangerous perimeter threats in the NEC. Her ability to knock down big shots has earned her a reputation as a clutch performer, and FDU will need her to continue her sharpshooting ways this season. At Media Day, Coach Gaitley was blown away at all of the progress she had continued to make with her game.

Conklin also plays tough defense and provides leadership on the court. She has the ability to take over games with her shooting, and her presence on the floor spaces out defenses, giving players like Teneisia Brown room to operate inside. Look for Conklin to play a huge role in FDU’s offensive game plan, especially in tight games where her shooting can be the difference.

A Balanced Attack

Our NEC Blitz Preseason First Team highlights a balanced mix of interior power and guard play that we believe will define the 2024-25 season. Josie Hill and Bailey Kuhns bring the physical edge, while Lanpher and Conklin offer perimeter scoring and leadership. Teneisia Brown bridges both worlds, capable of dominating inside while being an all-around force. These five players are poised to make major impacts on their teams and could very well be the difference-makers in the NEC this season.

LIU Sharks Women’s Basketball Preview: 2024-25

Schedule

Roster (not yet finalized)

2023-24 Record: 8-22

2023-24: 5th place

LIU Sharks, led by head coach Rene Haynes, are looking to bounce back from an 8-22 season. Entering her fifth season, Haynes, a former assistant at Duke and accomplished coach in the ACC, SEC, and Mid-American conferences, is determined to steer this team upward. The Sharks were tough at home, finishing 6-6 in Brooklyn, but struggled on the road. With no returning player logging over 23 minutes per game last season, the team’s success hinges on several returning and new faces stepping into expanded roles. The Sharks are one of the older NEC teams and have a group of players who have been around college basketball for a long time that should lead them once again into the NEC tournament.

Projected Rotation

Esti Varga (G, Grad.) - Varga returns after missing the 2023-24 season but was a key contributor in 2022-23, averaging 21.3 minutes per game with 3.5 rebounds, 2.5 assists, and 3.4 points. As a veteran guard, Varga's leadership and playmaking will be crucial to the backcourt. Expect her to anchor the offense and set the tone defensively with her solid all-around game.

Gisela Vazquez Segura (F, Grad.) - A Franklin Pierce transfer, Vazquez Segura brings experience and versatility to the forward position. Last season, she averaged 4 rebounds, 2 assists, and 5.8 points per game. Her ability to contribute across the board makes her a key addition to the lineup, and she’ll likely play a significant role on both ends of the floor.

Amaya Dowdy (F, Sr.) - Dowdy was a major presence last season, averaging 22.3 minutes, 6 rebounds, and 7.9 points per game, while leading the team in blocks (1.8 per game). Her defense and rebounding make her an essential part of the frontcourt. Dowdy will continue to be relied on for interior defense and scoring around the rim.

Nigeria Harkless (F, Sr.) - Harkless contributed 6.3 points, 3.5 rebounds, and 1.2 assists per game in 20.4 minutes last season. Known for her hustle and defense, she’ll bring energy to the lineup and provide consistent support on the glass and in transition. Harkless should be an important two-way player in her senior year.

Janessa Williams (G, Soph.) - Williams is set to be a crucial part of the rotation after playing 30 games as a freshman. She averaged 16.8 minutes, 5 rebounds, and 3.6 points per game, showcasing her defensive abilities with 0.8 steals per game. In her sophomore season, Williams could take a step forward offensively while continuing to excel on the defensive end.

Candela Nevares Garcia (G, Sr.) - A transfer from Charleston, Nevares Garcia saw limited action last season but brings depth to the guard position. She averaged 6 minutes per game with 0.8 rebounds and 0.3 points. Nevares Garcia’s experience will be valuable as a backup, especially in spot minutes for the starters.

Patricia Sherrill (F, Sr.) - Sherrill, a transfer from New Orleans, averaged 6.1 minutes per game, contributing 1.4 rebounds and 0.9 points. She’ll provide frontcourt depth, and her size and physicality will be important in matchups where the team needs additional interior presence.

Sirviva Legions (G, Soph.) - Legions, a transfer from Southern, offers athleticism and scoring. She averaged 13.5 minutes, 3.4 points, and 1.1 rebounds last season. Legions will be expected to provide a scoring spark and defensive intensity when on the floor.

Kayla Tilus (G, Jr.) - Tilus played in 22 games last season, averaging 10.4 minutes, 1.1 rebounds, and 1.7 points per game. Her role as a backup guard will involve providing energy and shooting off the bench. With another year of experience, Tilus could see an increased role in the rotation.

Team Preview

The Sharks are aiming for significant improvement in the NEC after winning 5 conference games in the 2022-23 season. The Sharks have aimed to improve by getting older, including the return of key veterans like Varga and Dowdy. LIU showed that they can be scary to play in Brooklyn last year; now they will look to be competitive both at home and on the road. If the Sharks can build chemistry early and their young players step up, they could surprise some teams in conference play. LIU has a long and storied basketball tradition including a men’s national title. This new generation- now called Sharks instead of Blackbirds- hopes that with their maturity, they can live up to that legacy.

Wagner Seahawks Women’s Basketball Season Preview: 2024-25

Schedule

Roster

2023-24 Record: 7-21

2023-24: 9th Place

Wagner’s women's basketball program, led by head coach Terrell Coburn, enters the 2024-25 season looking to rise from a challenging finish last year. Coburn, the first African American head coach in the program's history, has been here since 2021-22 after serving as an assistant. Despite the struggles in conference play last year(4-12), the Seahawks remained competitive throughout, tied with two other teams and just one game behind Saint Francis. This season offers hope, as Wagner has taken a bold approach to roster construction, leaning heavily on international talent and transfers, which could help them climb in the NEC standings.

Projected Rotation

C - Hawa Balde-Camara (Jr., Queens Transfer) - Balde-Camara will likely be one of the primary interior defenders and rebounders for Wagner. While her offensive production has been limited, her shot-blocking and defensive presence in the paint will be key for a team looking to shore up its defense.

F - Raneem ElBarky (Grad., TAMU-International Transfer) - ElBarky joins Wagner as a graduate transfer. Our provided statistics below are from the 2022-23 season. Her offensive potential (as indicated by her PPG) makes her an intriguing addition. She could provide much-needed scoring punch in the frontcourt if she adapts well to NEC competition.

F - Malia Mpondo (Jr.) - Mpondo offers versatility and athleticism in the forward position. While not a primary scorer, she adds depth and energy on both ends of the court.

G - Taleah Washington (Grad.) - Washington is the focal point of the Seahawks’ offense. Her ability to handle the ball, distribute, and score will be central to any success Wagner has this season. Look for her to play heavy minutes as both a leader and playmaker.

G - KC Carter (Grad., Mount St. Mary’s Transfer) - Carter, a graduate transfer, adds experience to Wagner's backcourt. Though her previous contributions were limited in terms of minutes, she could see an increased role as a rotational guard, especially with her experience in NEC play. On Wagner’s website, she is listed as transferring from Cornell. It’s unclear if she was at Cornell for a short time.

G - Irene Fernandez de Caleya (Jr., Casper College Transfer) - Fernandez de Caleya is a solid all-around guard, and her ability to contribute in multiple facets (scoring, rebounding, and assisting) will make her an important part of the rotation. Expect her to be a valuable piece off the bench, capable of stepping into the starting lineup when needed.

G - Angelie Ricard (Jr.) - Ricard is a reliable guard who provided 20 minutes per game last season. Her experience and ability to stretch the floor make her a vital part of Wagner's second unit.

G - Klea Kaci (R-So., Purdue Fort Wayne Transfer) - Kaci provides depth at the guard position and could see an increased role depending on her ability to fit into Wagner’s system. Her previous experience at Purdue Fort Wayne makes her a solid option.

Team Preview

Wagner’s roster composition is unique within the league, with 11 international players and a heavy reliance on transfers. This creates both excitement and uncertainty as the team seeks to rebound from last season’s struggles. If the new additions can find their footing in the NEC, and Taleah Washington continues to lead effectively, the Seahawks could surprise some teams. However, cohesion and chemistry will be essential in determining whether they rise in the standings or remain in the lower tier of the conference.

The strategy for Wagner seems to have been to retain Taleah Washington and build a team around her. To do this, they looked heavily to underutilized players at other schools. Because many of these players had such limited minutes, it’s difficult to ascertain what this Wagner squad will look like. Ultimately, this season will reflect Coburn’s chops as a recruiter and talent evaluator. It feels much like a high risk-high reward approach. If the Seahawks were able to unearth some hidden gems this offseason, Wagner will take a leap up the standings for NEC play. It just depends on what they were able to surround their returning players with.

It’s important to remember that while Wagner was the sole NEC team to not make the conference tournament last season, this team was not a doormat and the Seahawks had to get to tiebreakers to miss the dance last year. They’ll be competitive again on Grymes Hill this season.

Chicago State Cougars Women’s Basketball Season Preview: 2024-25

Schedule

Roster

2023-24 Record: 1-26

Independent (1st season in NEC)

As Chicago State enters their first season in the NEC, there’s a sense of both excitement and uncertainty. Last season’s record (1-26) may loom large, but it’s important to remember that as independents, they faced a difficult task—building a competitive schedule without the consistency that conference play provides. The difficulty in finding balanced opponents has clouded our view of who the Cougars really are, and subsequently it’s led to a narrowed vision of who the Cougars could be.

Now, with the structured competition of the NEC and a clear path to the NCAA tournament, Chicago State has the chance to reshape their program. The arrival of Coach Corry Irvin, a proven recruiter and leader with success at the highest levels of women’s basketball, signals a new direction for the Cougars. Coach Irvin’s experience at Mississippi State, where she helped land a top-ranked recruiting class and returned the program to the NCAA Tournament, suggests she knows what it takes to turn things around.

The Cougars have retained key players like Josie Hill, a defensive anchor, and Ja’Cia Cunningham, their top returning scorer. But what really stands out is the infusion of young talent and transfers. Freshmen like Aiyanna Culver and Marisa Gant, along with transfers like Asha Walker (Stanislaus State) and Kace Urlacher (IUPUI), provide fresh energy to a team not just eager to make their mark in the NEC. but built to play in the league. As this young core grows under Coach Irvin’s leadership, there’s a sense that the program is laying the groundwork for success. Players recruited to Chicago State now have more to play for than the program has had since leaving the WAC. Chicago State faces the same opportunity the rest of the NEC does- win and you’re in. The conference champion has an automatic berth to the NCAA Tournament, and in that regard Chicago State is as worthy as any of the other eight programs in the league.

The numbers for returning players, such as Hill's shot-blocking and Cunningham’s scoring ability, are eye-catching, but until we see how they fare against consistent NEC competition, it’s hard to know what to make of them. One thing is clear: the Cougars now have the stability of a conference home, and with that, their recruiting and overall development should improve.

Chicago State is a team with potential, but much like any program in transition, we’ll learn more about their place in the NEC once conference play begins. For now, there's reason to be cautiously optimistic that the Cougars could surprise some teams this season.

Projected Rotation

C: Josie Hill (Jr.) - Hill is the cornerstone for Chicago State. The junior center led the team in blocks with 2.8 per game and added 9.2 PPG and 7.3 RPG. Playing nearly 30 minutes per game, Hill’s defensive presence and rebounding will remain vital as the Cougars look to be more competitive in the NEC. If Hill can take another step forward offensively, she will be one of the top post players in the conference.

F: Evangelina Parrish (Sr.) - Parrish provides experience and stability at the forward position. Averaging 6.3 PPG and 4.8 RPG in over 26 minutes per game, Parrish’s defense and leadership will be crucial in helping guide this young roster through a season of transition. Her consistency on both ends of the floor will be key in keeping the Cougars competitive.

F: Taylor Norris (Sr.) - Norris was a solid contributor last season, averaging 8 PPG and pulling down 4.9 rebounds per game. She has the same expectations as anyone else at Chicago State for this season. As good as many of the numbers look, it wasn’t enough. Chicago State will need her scoring in crucial moments and to keep pace with the older NEC programs. Her efficiency and ability to stretch the floor will open things up for Hill inside.

G: Ja’Cia Cunningham (Jr.) - Cunningham is the team’s leading returning scorer, having averaged 13.6 PPG in just over 28 minutes per game last season. She’s a dynamic offensive player who can create her own shot and is likely to be the focal point of the Cougars' backcourt attack. Cunningham’s ability to score at all three levels makes her a threat to any defense in the NEC.

G: Hailey Hohenecker (Sr.) - Hohenecker provides valuable senior leadership and experience at the guard position. Though she only played 10 games last season, she averaged 2.1 APG and 3.1 RPG. If she can stay healthy, Hohenecker’s playmaking and perimeter defense will be critical in providing balance to Chicago State’s offense and setting the tone defensively.

G: Asha Walker (So., Transfer from Stanislaus State) - Walker is a scoring threat off the bench, having averaged 6 PPG in limited minutes last season. She’ll provide depth in the backcourt and could see an expanded role as she adjusts to NEC competition.

F: Kace Urlacher (So., Transfer from IUPUI) - Urlacher saw 13 minutes per game at IUPUI in the Horizon League last season and while her stat totals reflect limited minutes, she should see increased production with a larger role at Chicago State this season.

C: Kayla Mount (Fr.) - Mount is a freshman who may not see heavy minutes early on but could play a larger role as the season progresses. With her size and potential, she will be expected to grow into a key frontcourt piece in future seasons, if Chicago State chooses to continue deploying a dedicated center.

Team Preview

The Cougars have struggled in recent years as an independent team, but the move to the NEC provides a fresh start. While they remain an unknown entity in the league, the infusion of new talent—alongside solid returning players like Hill and Cunningham—offers hope for improvement. Chicago State’s young roster has potential, and with Coach Irvin's background in recruiting, expect the program to continue building for the future. And for the first time in years, there really is a tangible prize to build towards.

Chicago State’s non-conference schedule will provide big tests early on, but the Cougars are expected to improve as the season progresses, particularly once they settle into NEC play. The team’s success will hinge on how well they can integrate their newcomers and find consistent scoring options outside of Cunningham and Hill.

The chance to compete in a conference environment, with the potential for an NCAA Tournament bid, could elevate their recruiting and lay the groundwork for a more competitive program in the coming years. For now, Chicago State is a team with potential, but their place in the NEC will become clearer as the season develops.

CCSU Blue Devils Women's Basketball Season Preview: 2024-25

Schedule

Roster

2023-24 Record: 9-21

2023-24: 5th Place

Entering her second season at the helm, head coach Way Veney has her sights set on building upon the foundation laid during her inaugural year. The CCSU Blue Devils are coming off a campaign where they finished with a 7-9 conference record (9-21 overall), but with a strong mix of returning players and key transfer additions, there’s optimism that CCSU can rise in the NEC standings this year. Veney, who arrived in Hard Hittin’ New Britain in April 2023, brings a wealth of experience from her previous coaching roles, including a successful run as an associate head coach at Temple. While her playing background was as a big scorer at East Carolina, Veney has established herself in the Northeast in her coaching career. With a men’s basketball resurgence in Central Connecticut, there should be little question that the women’s side of the gym in New Britain will be making the same jump as well.

Projected Rotation

Belle Lanpher (G, Grad.) – Lanpher is the Blue Devils' floor general and offensive catalyst. The 5'5" guard led the team with 12.6 PPG last season, along with 2.8 RPG and 2.8 APG in a workhorse-like 35 minutes per game. Her leadership and ability to make big plays in clutch situations will once again be the driving force for CCSU, especially with another year of experience under her belt.

Meghan Kenefick (F, Grad.) – A steady presence in the paint, Kenefick will be a key part of CCSU’s frontcourt rotation again. She played heavy minutes last season, contributing 8.3 PPG and leads the returnees with 5.7 RPG. With her combination of shooting range and rebounding prowess, Kenefick gives the Blue Devils an interior-out threat that helps stretch opposing defenses.

Amaya Williams (G, Sr.) – Williams returns as one of CCSU’s top playmakers. The senior guard averaged 6.7 PPG and 1.8 APG last season and adds valuable defense on the perimeter, logging 0.9 steals per game. As a senior, she’ll be looked to for more consistency and leadership on both ends of the floor, particularly alongside Lanpher in the backcourt.

Alonna Sellers (F, Jr.) – Sellers is primed for a breakout junior season. After showing flashes last year with 7 PPG and 4.6 RPG in 17.6 minutes per game, her expanded role should allow her to become a more consistent scorer and defensive presence. Sellers' athleticism and shot-blocking ability (0.9 BPG) will be key for CCSU’s defensive identity.

Cierra Pearson (G, Jr.) – Pearson is another versatile player who can fill various roles for the Blue Devils. She averaged 2.4 PPG and 2.4 RPG in 17.5 minutes per game last season and should provide depth and flexibility off the bench. Her defensive intensity and ability to knock down open shots will be important for CCSU’s second unit.

Constance Ogbeide (F, Soph., Siena Transfer) – Ogbeide joins the Blue Devils from Siena and is expected to immediately step into a critical role in the frontcourt. She played in ten contests for the Saints last season and in limited minutes showed an ability to rebound. With a star player like Lanpher averaging 2.8 rebounds per game despite being listed at 5’5”, she should increase those totals with some expanded minutes. Her ability to emerge as a post defender and finish around the rim will be pivotal for CCSU to compete in NEC play.

Selina Monestime (G, R-Frosh., Albany Transfer) – Monestime comes to CCSU from Albany. She had the opportunity to sit and watch the Great Danes last season, and this year she’ll look to spend more time on the court. She’ll give Coach Veney another option off the bench or potentially in the starting lineup as the season progresses.

Team Preview

Coach Veney’s second year at CCSU is shaping up to be a promising one, with the team poised to improve on last season’s record. The Blue Devils are bolstered by the return of key players like Lanpher, Kenefick, and Williams, but the infusion of transfers Constance Ogbeide and Selina Monestime could be what elevates CCSU into the NEC’s upper tier. Both transfers will provide an infusion of talent to New Britain, as well as shoring up the frontcourt and adding depth to the backcourt.

If Alonna Sellers can take a step forward offensively, and CCSU gets solid contributions from its transfers and younger players, the Blue Devils have the potential to be a serious contender in the NEC. The team's added depth and experience could prove pivotal in a competitive NEC landscape, and with a returning grad student as the leading scorer, Central Connecticut State should be expected to take a step forward in Coach Veney’s second campaign.

Expect CCSU to be a much tougher out this season, and don’t be surprised if they make a push for a top-four finish in the NEC standings.

Saint Francis Red Flash Women’s Basketball Season Preview: 2024-25

Schedule

Roster

2023-24 Record: 5-25

2023-24: 8th Place

The Saint Francis Red Flash enter the 2024-25 season with a renewed sense of optimism, after a difficult 2023-24. Head Coach Keila Whittington, who has been with the program since 2019, aims to build on their conference performance and guide the Red Flash toward more consistency. Although they finished 4-12 in NEC play last year, they pulled off a notable upset against Le Moyne, who only had two regular-season conference losses. The Red Flash proved they can deliver big performances when needed, and with the wealth of experience returning, they’re poised to take a step forward this season.

Projected Rotation

Destini Ward (G, Jr.) – Ward is the unquestioned leader of the team this year. She averaged 11.4 PPG, 4.1 RPG, and 1.3 SPG last season before an injury cut her year short. She scored in double figures 13 times, with two 19-point games and a standout performance against Big Ten opponent Rutgers (14 points, 5 steals). Ward’s return to health and continued development will be crucial for the Red Flash’s success. Expect her to be the engine of the team, leading both offensively and defensively.

Kameryn Dorsey (G, Soph.) – Dorsey ranked in the top 15 among Division I freshmen with 3.4 APG last season. She brings great court vision and playmaking to the lineup, providing a steady hand in the backcourt. While her scoring numbers (3.5 PPG) weren’t high, her ability to set up teammates will be key to Saint Francis' offense. Look for her to build on that foundation this year.

Julianna Gibson (F, Jr.) – Gibson played nearly 26 minutes per game last season, providing 4.9 RPG and 5 PPG. She also added 0.3 BPG and 0.5 SPG. Gibson’s inside presence on both ends of the floor will be vital, especially with her experience and versatility. Her role in crashing the boards and contributing defensively will complement the Red Flash’s backcourt.

Marina Artero (F, Soph.) – Artero is another forward who saw significant minutes last season, averaging 25.5 MPG with 5.5 RPG and 3.7 PPG. She has a knack for getting into the passing lanes, as evidenced by her 0.7 SPG, and is a steady contributor in multiple areas. As she continues to develop, Artero will provide more stability in the frontcourt.

Natalie Johnson (G, Jr.) – Johnson is a Horizon League transfer from RMU and should immediately impact the Red Flash. She brings valuable experience and averaged 5 PPG in 14.8 MPG last year. Johnson’s role could expand in the Saint Francis system, especially with her shooting and defensive abilities.

Jade Campbell (F, Jr.) – Campbell is entering her junior season, and after averaging 13.2 minutes per game last year, she is poised for an expanded role in the frontcourt. Though her scoring output was modest (3.0 PPG), she contributed solid rebounding (4.2 RPG), which will be key for the Red Flash in controlling the boards. Campbell’s hustle on defense, along with her ability to block shots, makes her a valuable asset, especially when providing relief for starting forwards. As her minutes increase, expect Campbell to make more of an impact in both scoring and defense.

Yanessa Boyd (G, Soph.) – Boyd was a strong contributor last season, averaging over 25 minutes per game, and she figures to be an important piece in the Red Flash backcourt this year. While she posted 7.1 PPG, Boyd’s ability to contribute in multiple areas—such as her rebounding (3.1 RPG) and playmaking (0.9 APG)—is a key asset for Saint Francis. Her athleticism allow her to disrupt opponents defensively, as seen in her 0.8 steals per game. Expect Boyd to continue her development and potentially gain even more minutes her confidence and scoring touch grow.

Marissa Shelton (G, Jr.) – Shelton is entering her junior season after averaging 15.2 minutes per game last year, providing steady play in a guard role. With 3.9 PPG and a respectable shooting touch, Shelton has the potential to take on a larger role in the offense, especially as a perimeter shooter. While she didn’t fill the stat sheet in other areas, her ability to provide a scoring spark in limited minutes makes her valuable to the team. This year, Shelton could see an increased role, particularly in games where the Red Flash need spacing and shooting.

Harris Robinson (G, Sr.) – As a senior, Robinson brings leadership and experience to the Red Flash backcourt. She averaged 23.3 minutes per game last season, contributing 4.0 PPG and 4.3 RPG, making her one of the team’s more balanced players. Robinson’s ability to attack the glass from the guard position is vital, and her defensive awareness (0.6 SPG) adds value on that end of the floor. Her role this season will likely be more defined as a defensive stopper and a steady hand on offense. With her seniority, Robinson is expected to play a key role both on and off the court as a leader for this team.

Team Preview

The Red Flash will need to lean heavily on Ward to lead the way, but they bring back plenty of experience that should lead to improvement from last year’s 5-25 record. Despite some turnover, the Red Flash return a solid core, including Ward, Gibson, and Dorsey. The experience they’ve gained could prove invaluable in a more competitive NEC this season.

With several freshmen joining the squad, including guard Airiah Lavy and forward Giselle Eke, the team also has a youthful energy that could surprise opponents. If their new pieces can fit into the rotation quickly and players like Ward and Dorsey take the next step, Saint Francis could be a much-improved team in 2024-25.

If you can say nothing else about the Red Flash, you can say this: this is a deep, deep team with a lot of returning minutes. Look for them to survive some personnel turnover and play at least 9 players in the rotation. They’ll stay fresh and maybe those wins that were considered upsets last year will be thought of as expected in 2024-25.