Women’s Basketball: Bethune-Cookman & Stetson at Hatter Classic

stonehill Women’s basketball Poised for Continued Success in division I Play

Stonehill College women’s basketball is entering a pivotal period, having recently achieved full NCAA Division I status and demonstrating significant growth on the court. The Skyhawks,currently 3-5 are gearing up for the Hatter Classic in DeLand,Florida,where they will face Bethune-Cookman on Friday,December 19th,at 1:15 p.m. and Stetson on Saturday, December 20th, at 11 a.m.

Did you know? – Stonehill reached its 1,000th programme win on January 25, 2025, becoming the 49th women’s basketball program in the NCAA too achieve this milestone with a record of 1,011-461.

A Program on the Rise

The Stonehill program boasts a rich history, recently reaching a milestone with its 1,000th program win on January 25, 2025, against Chicago State. This victory cemented their place as just the 49th women’s basketball program in the NCAA to achieve this feat, carrying a record of 1,011-461 (.687). Currently ranked fourth in New England behind UConn, Bentley, and Husson, the Skyhawks are demonstrating a clear upward trajectory. Their transition to Division I,completed earlier this year,now allows them full eligibility for NCAA tournament participation.

Pro tip: – stonehill excels at protecting leads, boasting a 70-14 record when ahead at halftime over the last five seasons.

Key Strengths and Strategic Play

Stonehill’s success is built on a foundation of strong fundamentals and strategic gameplay.A key component is their proficiency at the free-throw line, where they currently feature four players shooting 75% or better. Junior Brooke Paquette leads the charge, ranking 48th nationally at 87.1% (27-31). last year, the team led the NEC with an impressive 80.2% free-throw percentage, finishing fifth nationally.

Beyond free throws, the Skyhawks excel in maintaining leads and controlling the score. They have a remarkable 70-14 record when leading at halftime over the past five seasons, and 25 of their 32 Division I wins have come when holding the lead at the intermission. Defensively, Stonehill consistently limits opponents, going 63-8 when holding teams under 60 points and 95-20 when opponents shoot below 40% from the field.

Reader question: – Freshman Reese Roggenburk is averaging 14.5 points and 10.0 rebounds, shooting 72.2% from the field, and earned NEC Rookie of the Week on November 17th.

Emerging Talent and Veteran Leadership

Freshman Reese Roggenburk has quickly established herself as a force to be reckoned with,earning NEC Rookie of the Week honors on November 17th. Roggenburk is averaging 14.5 points and 10.0 rebounds, shooting an impressive 72.2% from the field. Her performances, including a 19-point, 11-rebound double-double against Niagara on November 11th, are indicative of her potential.

The team also benefits from strong veteran leadership, with graduate student molly Lynch and juniors Bella Mallory and Brooke Paquette serving as captains. Paquette, named to the Preseason All-NEC Team, was last year’s NEC Moast Improved Player and a second-team all-conference honoree.

Looking Ahead: Vanderbilt and Beyond

Following the Hatter Classic, Stonehill will travel