The Holy Cross Women’s Basketball Roster stands as a testament to the depth and talent within the program. With a diverse group of players representing various backgrounds and skill sets, the team showcases a blend of experience and youthful enthusiasm.
This comprehensive roster analysis delves into the strengths, weaknesses, and potential impact of each player, providing insights into the team’s overall capabilities and prospects for the upcoming season.
As the Crusaders embark on their journey, a keen understanding of the roster’s composition is crucial. By examining the individual contributions and collective dynamics, we can anticipate the team’s performance and identify areas for growth. This roster analysis serves as a valuable tool for fans, analysts, and opponents alike, offering a comprehensive assessment of the Holy Cross Women’s Basketball team.
Roster Overview
The Holy Cross women’s basketball team features a diverse roster of talented players from across the United States. The team consists of a mix of experienced veterans and promising newcomers, providing a strong foundation for success on the court.
The following table provides an overview of the Holy Cross women’s basketball roster, including each player’s name, position, height, year, and hometown:
Roster
| Name | Position | Height | Year | Hometown |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adriana Chevres | Guard | 5’8″ | Senior | Springfield, Massachusetts |
| Cara McCormack | Guard | 5’10” | Junior | Quincy, Massachusetts |
| Keely McHugh | Forward | 6’1″ | Sophomore | Staten Island, New York |
| Mackenzie Kane | Guard | 5’9″ | Freshman | West Hartford, Connecticut |
| Megan Swords | Forward | 6’0″ | Sophomore | Cheshire, Connecticut |
| Riley Whitney | Guard | 5’7″ | Senior | Douglas, Massachusetts |
| Sadie O’Connor | Forward | 6’1″ | Junior | Westwood, Massachusetts |
| Summer King | Guard | 5’10” | Sophomore | Brockton, Massachusetts |
| Taylor Dyson | Guard | 5’8″ | Freshman | Pembroke, Massachusetts |
| Tori DeRosa | Forward | 6’0″ | Freshman | Ridgefield, Connecticut |
Key Players
The Holy Cross women’s basketball roster boasts several key players who are expected to make significant contributions to the team’s success this season. These players possess a combination of experience, skill, and athleticism that make them formidable opponents on the court.
Each player brings unique strengths and abilities to the team, and their collective efforts will be crucial in determining the team’s overall performance. Here’s a closer look at some of the key players on the Holy Cross women’s basketball roster:
Mackenzie Kane
- Junior forward from West Chester, Pennsylvania
- Averaged 12.5 points and 6.8 rebounds per game last season
- Strong inside presence with a soft touch around the rim
- Excellent rebounder with a knack for creating second-chance opportunities
- Can stretch the defense with her ability to shoot from beyond the arc
Lauren Manis
- Sophomore guard from Cincinnati, Ohio
- Averaged 10.2 points and 4.5 assists per game last season
- Quick and agile point guard with exceptional ball-handling skills
- Capable of creating her own shot and setting up teammates for easy baskets
li>Great court vision and passing ability
Bronagh Power-Cassidy
- Graduate student forward from Ireland
- Averaged 9.8 points and 5.2 rebounds per game last season
- Versatile forward with a well-rounded skill set
- Strong defender with quick feet and good instincts
- Can score from inside and outside, making her a threat from anywhere on the court
Team Strengths and Weaknesses
The Holy Cross women’s basketball team has a mix of strengths and weaknesses that will shape their performance in the upcoming season.
One of the team’s strengths is their size. The Crusaders have several players who are 6’0″ or taller, which gives them a significant advantage in the paint. This size will be a major asset on both offense and defense, as they will be able to score inside and rebound effectively.
Another strength of the team is their experience. The Crusaders have several players who have been in the program for multiple years, and they have a good understanding of the system and how to play together. This experience will be invaluable in close games, and it will help the team avoid making costly mistakes.
However, the Crusaders also have some weaknesses that could hinder their success. One weakness is their depth. The team does not have a lot of experienced players behind their starters, and they could be in trouble if they suffer any injuries.
Another weakness is their outside shooting. The Crusaders do not have a lot of players who can consistently hit shots from beyond the arc, and this could make it difficult for them to score against teams that play zone defense.
Overall, the Holy Cross women’s basketball team has a good mix of strengths and weaknesses. They have some talented players and a lot of experience, but they also have some depth and outside shooting concerns. If they can overcome their weaknesses, they have the potential to be a successful team.
Size
As mentioned above, the Crusaders have several players who are 6’0″ or taller, which gives them a significant advantage in the paint. This size will be a major asset on both offense and defense, as they will be able to score inside and rebound effectively.
The Crusaders’ size will be especially helpful on defense, as they will be able to block shots and alter shots in the paint. They will also be able to rebound effectively, which will give them second chances on offense.
Experience
The Crusaders have several players who have been in the program for multiple years, and they have a good understanding of the system and how to play together. This experience will be invaluable in close games, and it will help the team avoid making costly mistakes.
The Crusaders’ experience will also be helpful in leading the younger players on the team. They will be able to show them the ropes and help them adjust to the college game.
Depth
One weakness of the Crusaders is their depth. The team does not have a lot of experienced players behind their starters, and they could be in trouble if they suffer any injuries.
The Crusaders’ lack of depth could be especially problematic in conference play, when they will face some of the best teams in the country. If they suffer any injuries, they could be forced to play some of their younger players more minutes than they are ready for.
Outside Shooting
Another weakness of the Crusaders is their outside shooting. The Crusaders do not have a lot of players who can consistently hit shots from beyond the arc, and this could make it difficult for them to score against teams that play zone defense.
The Crusaders’ lack of outside shooting could also make it difficult for them to come back from behind in games. If they are trailing in the second half, they may not be able to hit enough shots from outside to catch up.
Season Outlook
The Holy Cross women’s basketball team is poised for a successful season in 2023-24. With a talented roster and experienced coaching staff, the Crusaders have the potential to make a deep run in the Patriot League tournament.
One of the biggest challenges facing Holy Cross this season will be replacing the production of All-Patriot League performer Megan Swords. Swords was the team’s leading scorer and rebounder last season, and her absence will leave a significant void in the lineup.
However, the Crusaders have a number of talented players who are ready to step up and fill the void.
Key Players
- Caitlyn McNeely:A 6’1″ senior forward, McNeely is the team’s leading returning scorer and rebounder. She is a versatile player who can score inside and out, and she is also a strong defender.
- Lauren Manis:A 5’9″ junior guard, Manis is a dynamic scorer who can create her own shot. She is also a good passer and defender.
- Maddie Hart:A 6’0″ sophomore guard, Hart is a rising star who has the potential to be one of the best players in the Patriot League. She is a skilled scorer and defender, and she is also a good rebounder.
The Crusaders also have a number of talented newcomers who could make an immediate impact this season. Freshman guard Emma Flynn is a skilled scorer and shooter, and she could be a valuable addition to the lineup. Freshman forward Jada Thomas is a strong rebounder and defender, and she could provide some much-needed depth in the frontcourt.
Team Strengths
- Experience:The Crusaders have a number of experienced players who have played in big games. This experience will be invaluable in the Patriot League tournament.
- Depth:The Crusaders have a deep roster with a number of players who can contribute. This depth will allow Holy Cross to withstand injuries and foul trouble.
- Defense:The Crusaders have a strong defense that is led by McNeely and Manis. They are a physical team that makes it difficult for opponents to score.
Team Weaknesses
- Scoring:The Crusaders struggled to score at times last season, and they will need to find more consistent scoring options this year.
- Rebounding:The Crusaders were outrebounded by their opponents last season, and they will need to improve their rebounding this year.
- Free throw shooting:The Crusaders were one of the worst free throw shooting teams in the Patriot League last season, and they will need to improve their free throw shooting this year.
Predictions
The Crusaders are predicted to finish in the top half of the Patriot League this season. They have the talent and experience to make a deep run in the Patriot League tournament, and they could be a dark horse to win the championship.
Coaching Staff
The Holy Cross women’s basketball team is led by a highly experienced and accomplished coaching staff, led by head coach Maureen Magarity. Magarity has been at the helm of the Crusaders since 2009, and has guided the team to numerous MAAC Championships and NCAA Tournament appearances.
She is assisted by associate head coach Tony Trifonov, who has over 20 years of coaching experience at the Division I level, and assistant coaches Caroline Bonny and Jillian Angell.
Coaching Philosophy and Expectations
Coach Magarity and her staff emphasize a team-first approach, with a focus on defense and rebounding. They expect their players to be competitive, disciplined, and accountable, and they strive to create a positive and supportive environment where players can reach their full potential.
The team’s goal is to compete for MAAC Championships and make deep runs in the NCAA Tournament.
Recent News and Updates
The Holy Cross women’s basketball team has been busy preparing for the upcoming season. The team has been practicing hard and is excited to get the season started.
The team has made several roster changes in the offseason. The team has added several new players, including freshmen guards Bronagh Power and Lauren Manis. The team has also lost several players to graduation, including All-Patriot League guard Infiniti Thomas-Waheed.
The team is scheduled to open the season on November 7th against the University of Massachusetts Lowell. The team will then play a challenging non-conference schedule before opening Patriot League play in December.
Upcoming Games, Holy cross women’s basketball roster
- November 7th: vs. University of Massachusetts Lowell
- November 11th: at Boston College
- November 14th: vs. Bryant University
- November 18th: at Dartmouth College
- November 22nd: vs. Boston University
FAQ Explained: Holy Cross Women’s Basketball Roster
What are the key strengths of the Holy Cross Women’s Basketball team?
The team boasts a strong inside presence with experienced post players and a balanced scoring attack from multiple players.
Who are the key players to watch on the Holy Cross Women’s Basketball team?
Senior guard Bronagh Power-Cassidy and junior forward Lauren Manis are among the top performers to monitor for the Crusaders.
What are the expectations for the Holy Cross Women’s Basketball team this season?
The Crusaders aim to contend for a top spot in the Patriot League and make a deep run in the NCAA Tournament.
