2024-25 CAA preview

The rhythmic beats and precision of the Aggies’ renowned Blue and Gold Marching Machine unifies the cheering students and proud alumni.

As the energy of GHOE fades, the exciting North Carolina A&T women’s basketball team is ready to carry that positive momentum into the winter. Named preseason favorites in the competitive Coastal Athletic Association (CAA) by the league’s 14 head coaches and with three of their five returning starters earning preseason All-CAA honors, the Aggies are poised for an extended run of excellence, creating a wave of glimmering moments that will unite the souls of their fans.

“[Being picked first] means we are right where we want to be as a program,” North Carolina A&T veteran head coach Tarrell Robinson said during the CAA media Zoom teleconference. “This is the standard and expectations and why [senior guard] Jordyn Dorsey came to be a part of this program. We were picked 10th two years ago and eighth a year ago. To move into first in a very talented league with talented coaches, I am thankful that my colleagues think we have what it takes to win this league.”

North Carolina A&T was followed in the preseason poll by Drexel, Towson, Charleston, William & Mary, Delaware, Elon, Campbell, Stony Brook, Monmouth, UNCW, Hofstra, Northeastern and Hampton.  Looking for a specific team? Click the links above to skip to your favorites.

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North Carolina A&T

Last season: (22-12 overall, 13-5 CAA)

With their unmatched talent and relentless drive, North Carolina A&T’s dynamic backcourt — featuring 5’9 senior guard Jordyn Dorsey and 5’10 graduate guard Maleia Bracone, both named to the preseason All-CAA first team — along with 6’4 redshirt junior center Chaniya Clark, a preseason All-CAA second team selection, have the potential to elevate the Aggie legacy.

Dorsey, arguably the hottest show on campus outside of GHOE, is a standout player who remains under the radar for many. She has captivated crowds, led the Aggies in numerous ways, broken records and steadied North Carolina A&T through a pair of conference shifts from the Big South to the CAA during her stellar four-year career. She became the first player in program history to earn first-team All-CAA honors after averaging 12.9 points, 5.3 rebounds, 3.4 assists and 1.3 steals per game, leading North Carolina A&T to 22 victories last season.

Although she is a relentless and ruthless scorer, the numbers only tell part of Dorsey’s story. She graduated from North Carolina A&T with a biology degree in three years. Currently in graduate school, working toward a management degree, Dorsey spent the last two summers interning in a dentist’s office. Her goal is to open her own dental practice. Dorsey also influences team culture and performance.

“Jordyn has been essential since she came to this University as a freshman,” Robinson said. “You know, she’s been a starter since day one, and she’s one of my buy-in kids, I say, Kool-Aid drinkers … She sets the tone on hard work and discipline. I can always use her as an example when trying to get people to buy in. When your best players are your most coachable players and your hard workers, it makes my job easy to set the tone for what we want to get done.”

Meanwhile, opponents are helpless as Dorsey glides where she pleases, fearlessly zipping in and out of sneaker-squeaking traffic. Combining the speed of a jaguar with the competitive spirit of a bear disturbed during hibernation, Dorsey is fun to watch and happy to be an Aggie. Dorsey’s routine excellence doesn’t surprise her teammates. Yet, they are always impressed when she does something spectacular.

She never considered entering the transfer portal when bigger programs came calling following her breakout junior campaign.

“There were a lot of things, actually,” said Dorsey when asked why she remained committed to the Aggies. “One is definitely coach Rob, the staff and the culture here. I believe in so much of what we have going on here. I believe it’s something special, and I believe it’s a job that we can get done 100%. It just feels like home, and my family is here.”

Her family, which includes her 6’5 twin brother Joshua, can also easily make the trips up Interstate 85 from her hometown of Augusta, Georgia, to see Dorsey play. It was Dorsey’s brother who got her into playing basketball at the age of six. He currently plays basketball at Bob Jones University in Greenville, South Carolina. They had fun competing against each other in the driveway. She admitted she won a few games against him before his growth spurt tilted the advantage.

Yet, by that time, Dorsey had everything she needed.

“It’s hard to describe our relationships to others,” Dorsey shared. “Always having somebody to push you, to encourage you, and bring all that together is great. He’s my best friend. So, it’s just like he could tell me when I’m slacking, and I can tell him when he’s slacking. There are times when I don’t feel like getting up in the morning, and I don’t feel like going to the gym; he’ll drag me out of bed. I enjoy having somebody to always hold you accountable and uplift you, especially through a season’s ups and downs.”

Dorsey committed to the Aggie program during the COVID-19 pandemic. Robinson only saw the film of Dorsey. She spoke to the staff and was comfortable enough to decide to continue the Aggie legacy.

“They sold me a dream, and I enjoyed it ever since I’ve been here,” Dorsey remarked.

Now, Dorsey is gearing up for her grand finale inside of “Club Corbett,” where passion for the game and deep love for North Carolina A&T converge while the ever-present sound of thunderous chants and synchronized cheers creates one of the best environments in the country.

“We knew she was special as I saw her clips,” Robinson said. “I’m like, man, this kid would be the best guard we’ve ever had, let’s reach out. She’s always been extremely talented and been able to score. So, we knew she was gifted, which is why I played her off the ball. One of the things that I realized during her freshman year is how unselfish she is. She plays the game the right way. … She makes great decisions and already came in with a work ethic, motivated and with a passion for the game. She came in with a strong faith that she can bounce back from any adversity.”

Since 2016, the Aggies have enjoyed three trips to the NCAA Tournament and won a pair of home games in last year’s WNIT, providing additional fuel and urgency for this season. The Aggies have also reached the 20-win plateau three times since 2017. Overall, under Robinson, North Carolina A&T has enjoyed six 20-win seasons in his 12 years of leading the Aggies. 

Dorsey and the other experienced, talented, balanced and motivated Aggies are focused on creating hardwood masterpieces this season, giving the crowd, dressed head-to-toe in Aggie blue and gold, reasons to celebrate. The Aggies’ roster has a combined 789 games of collegiate experience through returnees and transfers this season.

“Knowing where we left off last season definitely puts a chip on our shoulder coming into this year,” Dorsey said. “I’m excited to come back and work a little bit harder while making sure that we’re bringing the new people along with us, to make sure that we have a full roster where everybody is ready to compete.”

North Carolina A&T, which received 11 first-place votes, enjoyed record-setting crowds for the three WNIT games it hosted last season. The Aggies drew crowds of more than 3,000 for the games it hosted at the 5,000-seat Corbett Sports Center.  These were not sit-on-their-hands crowds either. They were raucous, rally-towel waving, and cheering-loud crowds.

In addition to Dorsey, Clark and Bracone, the Aggies’ returning starters include 5’11 graduate guard D’Mya Tucker and 6′ sophomore forward Paris Locke. Dorsey, Bracone and Locke all earned All-CAA recognition last season. Clark led the CAA in rebounding (8.2 per game) and scoring (10.1 per game). Four of the Aggies’ five starters averaged double digits.

Bracone averaged 11.2 points per game and is a two-time All-CAA defensive team selection. Tucker, who averaged 11.1 points per contest, is in her fifth year with the Aggie program. Locke was named to the All-Rookie Team.

Just because Robinson had five starters returning, it doesn’t mean he was comfortable. He hit the transfer portal hard to bring 5’11 sophomore forward Darrionna Howard (Delaware), 5’8 senior guard Reiven Douglas (Quinnipiac), 6’2 graduate forward Daija Powell (Bradley), 6’1 graduate forward Ajia James (Elon) and 6’3 junior center Delaney Yarborough (Stony Brook) into the program, expecting to contribute this season to help the Aggies reach their goal of winning the conference championship.

“We’re excited to continue to grow and get better as a team,” Dorsey said. “We have a wonderful coaching staff who continues to pour into us every single day. I am excited to see what’s in store for us.”

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Drexel

Last season: (19-15 overall, 10-8 CAA; CAA Tournament Champion)

It’s uncommon for a team returning five players from a championship roster to be projected second in a preseason poll. However, Drexel head coach Amy Mallon consistently has her Dragons performing at their best when it counts. Last season was particularly memorable, as the Dragons climbed from a seventh-place regular season finish to claim the CAA Championship.

Drexel’s recent success is a source of pride for the team and its fans. The Dragons secured their third CAA title by winning seven straight games to end the regular season, advancing through the tournament and earning a spot in the NCAA Tournament, where they faced Texas. With two NCAA Tournament appearances in the last three years, the Dragons are well-positioned to continue meeting their traditionally-high expectations.

One reason for optimism is the return of 5’8 senior guard Amaris Baker, who was selected to the preseason All-CAA first team. Last season, she averaged 11.7 points and 4.1 rebounds per game. She was also named the CAA Tournament Most Outstanding Player last season after averaging 19.8 points per game and 38.8 minutes per game through Drexel’s memorable four-game run in Washington, D.C. She ended the season with 11 straight double-digit performances.

Baker, one of the top shooters in the conference, will be expected to lead a different but talented squad this season.

Chloe Hodges, a 6′ graduate guard/forward, contributed 8.6 points and 5.1 rebounds per game as Drexel’s third-leading scorer last season. Another key contributor returning is 5’7 junior guard Grace O’Neill, who averaged 5.1 points and a team-leading 5.3 rebounds per game. She started in 33 of the Dragons’ 34 games.

Expected to play more significant roles this season will be 5’10 sophomore guard Laine McGurk and 5’9 junior forward Jalyn McNeill.

Mallon is excited about the impact of 6’2 sophomore forward Deja Evans and 6’2 junior forward Molly Lavin. Playing for Albany last season, Evans earned All-America East Third Team honors, a spot on the All-America East Defensive Team, and was named to the All-America East Rookie Team after averaging 8.1 points and 7.1 rebounds. Meanwhile, Lavin played in 28 games for American, where she was fourth on the team in scoring (7.4 ppg) and rebounding (5.0 rpg).

Towson

Last season: (20-11, 11-7 CAA)

Despite the task of replacing key players, the Tigers, under the leadership of third-year head coach Laura Harper, are poised to continue their winning ways and post a third straight 20-win season.

Towson enters the season with a solid roster but one that needs to replace 36.8% of its scoring, 43.6% of its rebounds, 36.5% of its assists and 46.7% of its steals from a season ago, following the loss of 2023-24 CAA Defensive Player of the Year Kylie Kornegay-Lucas, Quinzia Fulmore and others.

The Tigers, who return three starters from a team that narrowly missed the CAA finals last year, have a lot to be proud of. Under Harper’s guidance, they have achieved 41 victories, a CAA regular-season championship, a WNIT postseason appearance and impressive runs in the CAA Tournament.

Harper and the Tigers believe they have the pieces to finish as the last team standing on championship Sunday, especially with 5’7 graduate guard Patricia Anumgba leading the way. She earned preseason All-CAA first team honors.

Anumgba, Towson’s returning leading scorer, earned second-team All-CAA recognition last season after averaging 14.4 points, 3.2 rebounds, 2.2 assists and 1.4 steals. She scored double figures in 25 games and hit 20 or more points seven times.

Meanwhile, 5’7 graduate guard Alexia Nelson and 6’2 redshirt junior forward Kayla Morris are also returning starters. Nelson contributed 9.8 points, 4.1 rebounds, 3.1 assists and 1.1 steals per game. They combined to make 79 3-pointers, with Anumgba making 53 of them. Morris appeared in 20 games and made 11 starts. She averaged 4.8 points per game on 37.4% shooting. She is tough and had games last season in which she blocked eight shots against Hofstra and grabbed 15 rebounds against Delaware.

Expected to play a more significant role for the Tigers will be 5’8 junior guard India Johnston, 6’ senior forward Anasia Staton and 5’11 sophomore forward Anaiah Jenkins. This could be a breakout season for Johnston, who is one of the better 3-point shooters in the CAA. She averaged 7.0 points in 17 minutes per game. Johnston made 36 3-pointers, which was second on the Tigers last season.

In her first year with the Tigers, Staton appeared in 29 games and made three starts, averaging 3.5 points per game. Jenkins started 12 games and was third on the Tigers in offensive rebounds.

Notable newcomers are 6’ graduate forward Deja Bristol (Northeastern), 5’8 junior guard Masyn Marchbanks (Samford) and 6’2 freshman forward Khady Leye. Bristol averaged 10.4 points and 5.8 rebounds on 52.6% shooting last season for Northeastern. Marchbanks averaged 8.4 points for Samford. Playing at SPIRE Academy, Leye averaged 17 points and 11 rebounds.

William & Mary

Last season: (15-14, 12-6 CAA)

Third-year head coach Erin Dickerson Davis has the Tribe on the rise. After leading the Tribe to consecutive 12-win conference seasons and tying a program record, she signed a contract extension through 2029, signaling strong confidence in her leadership and the program’s direction.

This season, the Tribe is set to be a formidable opponent. They return eight players with an average height of 5’9.5, and five of their six newcomers stand over 6′.

William & Mary returns four starters, highlighted by 5’7 sophomore guard Cassidy Geddes and 5’8 senior guard Bella Nascimento, who will look to build on solid seasons last year. The Preseason All-CAA honorees will be looked upon to carry more of the scoring load this season, and each appears poised to take on increased responsibility. Nascimento was selected to the second team, and Geddes earned preseason honorable mention recognition.

Named to the All-CAA Rookie Team last season, Geddes averaged 9.7 points, 2.1 assists and 1.7 steals per game. During CAA play, she averaged 11.2 points, which was third among freshmen.

Nascimento is the Tribe’s leading returning scorer at 12.4 points per game. She scored 20 or more points six times. Other starters returning for William & Mary are 5’8 junior guard Alexa Mikeska and 5’11 graduate forward Rebekah Frisby-Smith. Mikeska did plenty of little things to help the Tribe last season, averaging 4.5 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.2 assists per game. Frisby-Smith shot a team-leading 31.8% from 3-point distance. She averaged 4.5 points and 3.8 rebounds per game.

Key returnees include 6′ junior forward Anahi-Lee Cauley, 6’1 graduate center Kayla Beckwith, 6’2 junior forward Kayla Rolph and 5’3 sophomore guard Monet Dance. Cauley was a force during CAA play, scoring in double figures five times. She averaged 7.1 points and 3.5 rebounds per game on 46.8% shooting. Beckwith contributed 4.2 points and 4.6 rebounds per game.

Dickerson Davis is also excited about transfers Jana Sallman (Memphis) and Aislinn Gibson (Maine). A 6’3 sophomore forward from Cairo, Egypt, Sallman appeared in 15 games off the bench in her lone season at Memphis. Gibson brings a winning vibe to William & Mary after helping Maine win the America East and qualify for the NCAA Tournament last year.

College of Charleston

Last season: (22-10, 13-5 CAA)

Charleston aims to build on last season’s impressive 22-10 record with the help of CAA Preseason Player of the Year, 5’10 sophomore guard Taryn Barbot. In addition to winning a game in the WNIT, the Cougars posted their most wins since 2010 and achieved just their third 20-plus win season in program history.

Barbot, the lone returning starter, shined as CAA Rookie of the Year and an All-CAA second team honoree. She averaged 15.1 points, 6.3 rebounds and 2.0 assists across 28 starts, making her the first Charleston player to win CAA Rookie of the Year. Additionally, she was named to the All-Rookie and All-CAA second teams.

Barbot, a six-time CAA Rookie of the Week, scored in double figures in 21 games, surpassed 20 points six times and recorded a season-high 36 points on Jan. 14 — the most by any CAA player last season. She also made history as the first Charleston player to be named CAA Preseason Player of the Year.

Charleston lost three double-digit scorers from last season, but head coach Robin Harmony is confident that her players are ready to take the next step and enjoy breakout years.

Key returnees expected to play a bigger role this season for Charleston include Barbot’s sister, Taylor, a 5’9 sophomore guard who saw action in 25 games last season. Jami Hill, a 5’11 sophomore guard, scored eight points in Charleston’s WNIT setback to Illinois State. Marissa Brown, a 6′ junior guard, appeared in 18 games last season, while 5’10 junior wing Naylee Cortes started 10 games and averaged 3.2 points per contest.  

Impactful transfers for the Cougars include 5’8 graduate guard McKinley Brooks-Sumpter, 5’10 graduate guard Nyah Willis and 6’1 redshirt junior Sophia Tougas. A native of South Carolina, Brooks-Sumpter was named to the Big South All-Conference second team last season at UNC-Asheville after averaging 14.6 points and 6.9 rebounds per game. The Columbia, South Carolina native also played a year at USC Upstate.

Willis played two years at North Carolina A&T, where she averaged 6.7 points and 1.9 rebounds last year, helping the Aggies win 22 games. Tougas averaged 6.6 points and 4.6 rebounds at Cal State-Bakersfield, where she started 30 of the 57 games she played.

Delaware

Last season: (11-20, 7-11 CAA)

With their top four scorers from last season returning, the Blue Hens are set to begin their final season in the CAA before transitioning to Conference USA next year. Delaware, a member of the CAA since 2001, has had a successful run in the conference, including competing in the NCAA Tournament in 2007, 2012, 2013 and 2021.

Delaware aims to finish its CAA tenure on a high note.

Third-year head coach Sarah Jenkins is eagerly anticipating the return of key players, including 5’11 graduate forward Chloe Wilson, 5’8 graduate guard Sydney Boone, 6’1 sophomore center Ande’a Cherisier, 5’8 graduate guard Tara Cousins and 6’ graduate guard/forward Rebecca Demeke. Together, they form a tightly-knit core for the Blue Hens, ready to take on the challenges of the upcoming season.

Cousins was a member of the Blue Hens’ 2022 CAA championship team that went to the NCAA Tournament. Cousins and Cherisier were named Preseason All-CAA honorable mention selections.

Named to the preseason All-CAA second team, Wilson led the Blue Hens with an 11.5 point-per-game average. She also averaged a team-leading 6.9 rebounds. Cousins, who started 29 games, averaged 10.3 points and handed out 64 assists, which was second on the team. Cousins also made 44 3-pointers. Cherisier, who was named to the All-CAA Rookie Team, averaged 9.1 points per game and had 16 blocked shots.

Boone averaged a team-high 29.2 minutes, made 25 starts, averaged 8.5 points and handed out a team-best 89 assists. Demeke led Delaware with 59 3-pointers last season en route to averaging 7.2 points per game. She was eighth in the CAA in 3-pointers made per game (2.0).

Other returning Blue Hens include 5’9 sophomore guard Grace Sundback and 6’ senior forward Michelle Ojo. They each averaged 5.7 points per game, although Ojo played three games. Ojo was a spark plug off the bench for UD and tied her career-best with 15 points against Northeastern.

Elon

Last season: (11-21, 7-11 CAA)

Veteran head coach Charlotte Smith is thrilled to have 6′ senior forward Iycez Adams and 5’4 sophomore guard Maraja Pass, the top two returning scorers from last season, back on the roster. They are two of six returning players for the Phoenix.

The winningest head women’s basketball coach in program history and former University of North Carolina women’s basketball standout who hit the game winning shot in the 1994 national championship game, Smith is entering her 14th season of leading Elon.

Named to the preseason All-CAA second team, Adams averaged a team-best 10.3 points, 7.0 rebounds and 1.8 blocks per game, which tied her for second in the conference in blocks per game. Her 49 blocked shots were third in the conference. Adams was also eighth in the CAA in rebounds per game and 16th in steals per game (1.3). She recorded five double-doubles, including three straight double-doubles from Jan. 14-21.

Pass, who started 20 games, is one of the best passers in the CAA. She averaged 8.6 points, 4.2 rebounds and 3.7 assists per game. She led the Phoenix with 110 assists, tying for second in most by a freshman in Elon’s Division I era.

In addition, veterans Kamryn Doty and Raven Preston return after missing last season due to injuries. Doty played in all 30 games with 25 starts in the 2022-23 season, averaging 5.8 points, 2.4 rebounds and 2.1 assists in 22.7 minutes per game. Preston, named Preseason All-CAA honorable mention, averaged 12.7 points and 8.1 rebounds per game during that same season.

The chemistry between Preston and Adams, who played together in high school, is a strong foundation that will bolster Elon’s lineup.

Other returning players include 5’3 junior guard Regina Walton, 5’10 junior guard Ruby Willard, 6’3 junior center/forward Hannah Dereje and 6’2 junior center Aly Wadkovsky. Walton and Willard both appeared in 30 games and hit 16 three-pointers each.

Key newcomers, including 5’8 freshman guard Jayda Angel, North Carolina’s top high school scorer with 2,746 career points, and Mount Olive transfer Laila Anderson, a 5’7 junior guard who ranked in the top 50 among Division II players in points and steals per game last season, bring a fresh wave of talent to the team. Their arrival signals a promising future for the Phoenix.

Campbell

Last season: (17-14, 9-9 CAA)

After finishing their inaugural season in the CAA with 17 victories after winning five of their last eight games, the Fighting Camels are looking to continue to build. These returning players were part of last year’s squad that advanced to the CAA quarterfinals. Campbell will rely on numerous underclassmen to enjoy another successful season.

The Fighting Camels return one starter in 5’7 junior Gemma Nunez. She started all 31 games and led Campbell with 106 assists. She also averaged 5.6 points per game. Campbell’s leading returning scorer is 5’11 junior guard Gianni Boone, who contributed 6.5 points per game. Another key player back for the Camels is 5’10 senior guard Audrey Fuller, who averaged 4.7 points per game. All three players saw action in at least 30 games.

Head coach Ronny Fisher, in his ninth year at the helm, looks forward to seeing 5’7 sophomore guard Jessica Woods, 6’ sophomore guard Hadleigh Dill and 6’2 sophomore forward Peris Smith to take big steps forward and continue developing. He’s expecting at least two of them to crack the starting lineup.

Fisher is looking forward to seeing how his talented freshman class — 6’3 forward Mikayla Taborn, 5’10 guard Emerson Thompson, 5’7 guard Olivia Tucker, 5’11 guard Jasmine Felton and 6’6 guard Ciara Alexander — develops and contributes.

Stony Brook

Last season: (28-5, 16-2 CAA)

Despite having a new head coach in Joy McCorvey, the Seawolves’ championship expectations remain unchanged. McCorvey, a former St. John’s player and assistant coach at Tennessee for the past three years, takes over a program that lost its top three scorers from last season. Known for her strategic approach and ability to develop young talent, McCorvey brings a fresh perspective and energy to Stony Brook.

Fortunately, McCorvey inherits a robust group of veterans, including two returning starters: 5’9 senior guard Zaida Gonzalez and 5’10 graduate guard Kelis Corley. Both players, who started every game last season as Stony Brook advanced to the second round of the WBIT, bring a wealth of experience to the team. Their seasoned skills and leadership will be needed in the rugged CAA.

Corley, who had five rebounds in the CAA championship setback to Drexel, averaged 3.5 rebounds, 2.8 points and 1.1 assists per game last season. Also returning to provide experience for Stony Brook are 6′ graduate guard Shamarla King and 6′ sophomore guard Janay Brantley, one of six players to play in every game last season.

King ended the season strong by scoring double figures in the Seawolves’ two WNIT games against James Madison and Illinois. King tallied 17 points, nine rebounds and two assists in the victory over JMU. Brantley is excited for a bigger role following her freshman season when she scored in 22 of her 33 appearances and recorded an assist in 25 of 33 games. Brantley scored a season-best nine points vs Campbell in the opening-round victory of the CAA Tournament.

With 10 players returning, the Seawolves’ roster is further strengthened by the addition of impact transfers, 5’8 sophomore guard Chloe Oliver (Davidson) and 5’8 graduate guard Devyn Scott (Fairleigh Dickinson/Florida Atlantic). Scott, returning to her Long Island roots, has played in 109 career games during her collegiate career, bringing a wealth of experience to the Seawolves. Oliver, who saw action in 20 games last season at Davidson, adds a new dynamic to the team.

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Monmouth

Last season: (22-10, 14-4 CAA)

A new era dawned in April with the appointment of Cait Wetmore as the 10th head coach in Monmouth’s illustrious history. Wetmore, who arrives at Monmouth after a successful four-season stint at Charlotte, including two as associate head coach, brings with her a winning pedigree. Her tenure at Charlotte saw the 49ers clinch the 2022 Conference USA regular season and tournament championships, securing a spot in the NCAA Tournament for the third time in the program’s history. 

Wetmore inherits a team that won 22 games last year and lost its top three scorers. Fortunately, she also has an experienced team to work with. The Hawks’ leading returning scorer is 6’ graduate forward Taisha Exanor, who averaged 7.3 points and 5.9 rebounds per game while making 31 starts. Exanor scored a career-high 16 points in a WNIT win at Buffalo. It was her seventh game reaching double figures.

Also starting 31 games was 5’9 graduate guard Sandrine Clesca, who contributed 6.4 points and 3.8 rebounds per game while leading the team with 79 assists in her first year with the Hawks. Also returning for the Hawks are 5’9 sophomore guard Isabella Murray, 5’11 junior guard Amiya Carroll, 6’3 junior forward Ella Farrelly and 6’3 graduate center Belle Kranbuhl, who started all 32 games and averaged 5.7 points and 7.7 rebounds.

Wetmore has enhanced the team with the addition of several talented transfers. These new recruits — including 5’7 graduate guard Rachel Kuhl (Saint Peter’s), 5’7 graduate guard Kemari Reynolds (Bryant), 5’7 senior guard Dayshawna Carter (Kansas City), 5’10 graduate guard Alexis Stewart (Akron), and 5’3 senior guard Damaris Rodriguez (NJCU) — bring a fresh perspective and a wealth of experience to the team.

University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW)

(5-25, 3-15 CAA)

Leading the Seahawks this season will be 5’11 redshirt sophomore guard Taylor Henderson and 5’8 graduate guard Jania Hall, who earned All-CAA Preseason recognition.  Henderson and Hall were named to the second team and honorable mention squads, respectively.

An All-Rookie selection in 2023-24, Henderson averaged a team-leading 14.6 points per game. She also added 6.0 rebounds and 2.4 assists per game. A two-time CAA Rookie of the Week, Henderson reached double-digits in scoring 20 times.

Hall, meanwhile, was the league’s Sixth Player of the Year at Monmouth after averaging 9.2 points and 2.5 rebounds per game. Playing in 32 games, Hall reached double digits in scoring 16 times.

In addition to Henderson, the Seahawks return double-digit scorers in 5’11 graduate guard Evan Miller and 5’10 sophomore guard Kylah Silver. The only player to start all 30 games, Miller averaged 12.2 points per game. Miller reached double figures 19 times with four efforts of 20 or more points, including a 24-point performance against Northeastern in the CAA Tournament.

Silver contributed 11.2 points per contest in 25 games. Silver scored in double figures 14 times and had a double-double against North Carolina Central.

Overall, UNCW’s roster is a promising mix of experience and fresh talent, with nine newcomers joining the team. This includes transfers: 6’4 graduate forward Alexandra Zelaya (North Carolina), 5’10 junior guard Kate Hollifield (Belmont), 6′ graduate forward Isis Fitch (Bradley), 6’1 junior forward Torin Rogers (Richmond) and Hall. With such a diverse and skilled lineup, the team is poised for a successful season.

Hofstra

Last season: (11-21, 3-15 CAA)

The Pride have a strong foundation with 5’9 junior guard Emma Von Essen and 6’3 graduate center Zyheima Swint returning. They were two catalysts that helped Hofstra win a pair of games in last spring’s CAA Tournament and push North Carolina A&T in the quarterfinals. The Pride enjoyed a six-point lead halftime advantage against the Aggies. That run has fueled optimism for the Pride under sixth-year head coach Danielle Santos Atkinson, who is confident about the team’s future.

Von Essen is Hofstra’s returning leading scorer (11.3 ppg). She also averaged 7.3 rebounds for the Pride. Swint led the Pride in rebounding (8.1 rpg) and averaged 7.8 points per game. Also returning this season for Hofstra are 5’7 junior guard Alarice Gooden and 5’6 sophomore guard Micaela Carter, who averaged 2.2 points in 32 games.

Ten newcomers bolster the Pride roster, including six transfers led by 5’7 junior guard Chloe Sterling from James Madison. She played in all 35 games for the Dukes as they lost in the Sun Belt Championship and participated in the WNIT. Sterling averaged 4.4 points, 2.5 assists and 1.9 rebounds for JMU. Sabrina Larsson, a 5’8 junior guard, was an All-KJCCC honorable mention selection after averaging 10.9 points, 4.9 rebounds and 3.9 assists per game.

Santos Atkinson is also excited about the additions of 5’10 graduate forward/center Ayen Angoi (Louisiana Tech), 5’11 graduate forward Ramatoulaye Keita (Gardner Webb), 5’8 graduate guard Janaia Fargo (Charleston Southern) and 5’10 sophomore guard Kassidy Thompson (Quinnipiac). 

Northeastern

Last season: (10-17, 5-13 CAA)

Coach Priscilla Edward-Lloyd’s CAA media availability began on a positive note, as she shared the team’s improved health status. This promising update sets an optimistic tone for the upcoming season, instilling hope and anticipation for Huskies’ fans.

The Huskies, despite being decimated by injuries late last season and having to cancel three CAA contests, managed to secure a significant CAA Tournament victory. This victory not only displayed the resilient spirit of the Huskies but also set a strong foundation for the upcoming season. Northeastern’s top returning scorer from last season is 5’6 graduate guard Maddie Vizza, who averaged 7.0 points and 2.4 points per contest. She started all 27 games and endured a yeoman’s workload of 32.3 minutes per game. She also connected on a team-leading 58 3-pointers.

Another returnee who played in every game was 5’4 sophomore guard Yirsy Queliz. She averaged 6.0 points per game, making 25 3-pointers and 17 starts. Also looking to enjoy a strong year is 6’2 senior forward Asha Parker, who averaged 6.2 points and 4.3 rebounds per outing last year.

Seeing action in 23 games and gaining valuable experience was 6’3 junior forward Oralye Kiefer and 5’7 junior guard Marian Turnbull. Also expected to play a more significant role this season for the Huskies are 6’3 sophomore forward Sophia Carlisle and 5’8 senior guard Camille Clement.

Transfers include 5’7 graduate guard Bailey Williams (Longwood), who played in every game during her time at Longwood and finished with 124 assists. Abby Jegede, a 5’10 redshirt sophomore guard from Villanova, played 29 games for the Wildcats last season as they advanced to the WBIT championship game. 5’9 redshirt junior guard Natalie Larrañaga (Florida National) has been a member of the Guatemala Senior National Team since 2018, showcasing her international experience and leadership skills.

Hampton

Last season: (3-26, 3-15 CAA)

First-year head coach Tamisha Augustin steps in to lead the Lady Pirates, succeeding longtime coach David Six. With eight returning players, there’s a renewed sense of energy and excitement surrounding the program this season.

Augustin, a Hampton, Virginia, native and Bethel High graduate, is Hampton’s 10th head coach in program history. With a nearly two-decades-long coaching career, Augustin has served as an assistant coach and a recruiting coordinator at prestigious programs such as Arizona, Mississippi State, Florida, Minnesota and Virginia Commonwealth University.

Despite the departure of two of their top three scorers from last season, the Lady Pirates are not to be underestimated. With the return of three starters, including dynamic 5’9 senior guard Amyah Reaves, who averaged 7.8 points last season, the team is poised to give their opponents a run for their money. Reaves, who scored in double figures nine times and recorded her only double-double of the season (11 points and 11 rebounds) against Northeastern, is a force to be reckoned with.

The other returning starters, 5’8 junior guard Le’Asia Foreman and 6’2 senior forward Aisha Dabo, each averaged at least five points per game and combined to average 7.8 rebounds, further bolstering the team’s strength.

Returning from last year’s team are a group of talented players who have already proven their worth on the court. These include 6’2 guard/forward Jenae Dublin, 6’2 sophomore forward Casey Miller, 5’7 sophomore guard Tyra Kennedy, 5’11 sophomore guard Arlisha Boston and 5’5 sophomore guard Malaka Cobb. 

Dublin’s return will be welcomed by the Lady Pirates. She started 10 games and averaged 9.0 points per game, reaching double digits and scoring in six games.

The Lady Pirates’ recruiting class is a testament to Augustine’s commitment to excellence. The class, which includes six transfers, is led by Virginia native Jasha Clinton, a standout player for three years at Temple. The 5’8 graduate guard, who was the Virginia Player of the Year as a senior in high school, averaged 11.1 points in 18 games during the 2022-23 season for the Owls. Her accolades include being named the 2021 Big 5 Rookie of the Year and selected to the American Athletic Conference’s All-Freshman team, making her a valuable addition to the team.

In addition to Clinton, the list of newcomers includes 6’1 junior guard Tiani Abrams (Northern Colorado), 6’1 junior forward Kiya Dorroh (Tennessee-Martin), 6’6 senior center Arina Nikishina (Cal State Northridge), 5’8 graduate guard CeCe Thomas (Georgia Southern) and 5’10 sophomore guard Diamond Wiggins (Monmouth).

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Five can’t-miss CAA conference contests

Drexel at North Carolina A&T, Friday, Jan. 17: The only regular season matchup of the top two teams in the conference preseason poll. Drexel overcame a halftime deficit to win in Greensboro last season. Four preseason All-CAA selections will be on the floor in this game (Baker, Dorsey, Bracone and Clark).

Towson at Drexel, Sunday, Feb. 2: The Tigers and Dragons meet for the first time since their tense CAA semifinal contest in which Drexel won by one point. It’s also a matchup between Baker and Anumgba, two preseason All-CAA first team selections.

Elon at UNCW, Friday, Feb. 14: This has the potential to be a sneaky-good Valentine’s Day contest. Each team features a preseason All-CAA second team selection in Adams and Henderson.

Charleston at William & Mary, Sunday, Feb. 23: Big things are expected for both programs, tied for fourth in the preseason poll. They each have the pieces to catapult them among the CAA’s elite. This game could determine who gets the double bye in the CAA Tournament.

Towson at Delaware, Saturday, March 8: This one is sad as this will be Delaware’s final regular-season contest as a CAA member, which means this will is the final time that these longtime rivals will meet as conference foes.