2024-25 Women's Basketball Season Preview
The Holy Cross Women's basketball team is gearing up for an exciting 2024-2025 season! After wrapping up last season with a 16-14 overall record and a solid 12-8 conference performance, they are eager to build on that success and make a significant impact this year in the conference. With renewed determination and focus, they aim to elevate their game and compete for the top spot!
Preseason Highlights
· Pre-Season Start: The team tips-off their preseason with a scrimmage against Ancilla College on October 10th at 6:30pm at McKenna Arena.
Key Matches
· Season Home Opener: Their first game is against Mount Vernon Nazarene on November 1st at 5:00 PM.
· Conference Opener: They will play their first conference game against Viterbo at home on November 20th at 5:30 PM.
Seniors
· Jordyn Smith (Granger, Indiana)- Going into her 4th year at Holy Cross and her senior season, Smith is looking for another impressive season. In the 2023-24 season she had 341 points and secured her 1000th career point with five games left to go in the season. Her 127 assists highlighted Jordyn's playmaking and vision as she led the team to the program's first back-to-back winning seasons campaign. Additionally, with 61 steals, she displayed an impressive defensive tenacity that we will be looking for again this season.
· Kayliana Hammel (New Haven, Indiana)- Also going into her 4th year at Holy Cross and senior season, Hammel in the 23-24 season, scored 345 points which included a season record breaking 40% from the three-point line breaking the previous record set during the 2015-16 season. Kayliana's 130 rebounds reflected her commitment on the boards as well, while 53 steals highlighted her defensive prowess and ability to disrupt the opponent's plays, a trait the Saints will need this season.
· Grace Adams (Elkhart, Indiana)- Also going into her 4th year at Holy Cross and senior season, Adams in the 23-24 season racked up 557 points breaking the program record for points in a season. With an impressive 75.4% from the free throw line, she consistently converted opportunities under pressure as well. Her 304 rebounds highlighted her relentless work ethic and dominance on the boards, while her 55 steals and 36 blocks reflect her exceptional defensive skills and impact on both ends of the court. We are excited to see what she does during her final season at Holy Cross.
Promising Newcomers
o After bringing 3 incoming freshmen onto the team this year, La'Bria Austin (Buchanan, Michigan), Allie Caldwell (Zionsville, Indiana), and Kaiden Hanley (Macy, Indiana), the new Saints are expected to make significant contributions and add depth to the team for the 2024-25 season.
Goals for the Season
· Improving Conference Play: With a 12-8 record in the conference last season, the team aims to enhance their performance and climb the standings with the ultimate goal to reach the top spot in the CCAC tournament.
· Building Team Chemistry: Integrating new players and developing strong team dynamics will be essential for success.
Challenges
· Tough Opponents: Facing strong teams early in the season will test their resilience and provide valuable experience which includes a tough non-conference schedule.
The Holy Cross women's basketball team is ready for another winning season and simply some good basketball! With a mix of experienced record holding players and promising newcomers, they have the opportunity to achieve their goals and make a significant impact this season.
Good luck Saints!