It has been an intense and interesting start to the Division I women’s basketball season for teams in New York and New Jersey. With the pandemic abating, student-athletes are thriving on the roar of the crowd and hoping it continues. Some teams are sustaining their momentum from 2021–22, while others are getting their groove back after some frustrating seasons. Here is a look at how some of the top teams in the area are doing as conference season goes full throttle (Columbia University is covered separately).
St. John’s University
After two very disappointing seasons, St. John’s has reached new heights during non-conference play, which has only continued in Big East action. The Red Storm achieved a program landmark with an undefeated streak to start the season. As the calendar closed on 2022, St. John’s was 13–0 overall and 4–0 in Big East play. Redshirt senior guards Jayla Everett and Kadaja Bailey are leading the offense.
Fordham University
Under a new head coach, Fordham has kept on winning, amassing an 8–5 record in non-conference play. New Year’s Day brought the start of Atlantic 10 action and a win. Graduate student guard Asiah Dingle is averaging 19.1 points per game.
NJIT
Teetering on a winning percentage, NJIT is at 7–7 overall and 2–0 in America East Conference play.
Seton Hall University
After starting the season with three wins, Seton Hall hit a rough spot with three losses, but responded by going on a seven-game winning streak. Senior guard Lauren Park-Lane has garnered Big East honors, including Player of the Week. Two other players are also consistently scoring significant points. Graduate student forward/center Sidney Cooks is contributing 15.4 points and 6.6 rebounds per game. Senior guard Sha’Lynn Hagans is giving an average 10.2 points per game. The Pirates opened Big East play 4–1 with their only loss being to Connecticut.
Iona University
Iona’s transition from a college to a university seems to have inspired the Gaels, with the team enjoying its best start in several seasons: 7–5 overall and 2–1 in MAAC action as of Jan. 1.
