By Allison Hernandez, Staff Writer
The Newman University women’s basketball team is gearing up for what could be a season of significant progress and growth, said head coach Amy Briggs, who is entering her second year at Newman.
The Jets are in preseason training, preparing for their season opener at home against Arkansas Monticello on Nov. 8.
Briggs said she is excited about the development she’s seen in her players, many of whom are now stepping into bigger roles after gaining valuable experience last season.
"I feel like they’ve taken it to a new level," Briggs said of the team’s preparation. "Last year, we had a lot of freshmen and sophomores, and now those players have matured into sophomores and juniors. They’ve grown in their focus and understanding of the game. It’s been great to see how well-prepared and excited they are for what we can accomplish this season."
Briggs has set clear goals for her team, with one of the top priorities being to qualify for the MIAA Conference Tournament.
"The MIAA is a hard conference," she said. "But I think this team is capable of surprising some people.”
Briggs also said that the team wants to improve its non-conference performance and is aiming for a winning record. Last year, the team had won only two games, finishing with a record of 2-26.
“Overall, it’s about being better than what we have been in the past," Briggs said.
A key to the team’s success this year will be getting the ball in the basket.
“Scoring was a struggle that we had in the past, but I think with some of our player development from our returners increasing their skills and understanding our offices really helps,” Briggs said. “Some of our new faces that will play this year will also add their scoring abilities.”
The team returns 10 players, including sophomore forward Jaeden McMillin, who made a significant impact in her freshman year and is expected to be a cornerstone for the Jets.
"She’s probably our best returning player in terms of production," Briggs said. "She excelled in scoring and rebounding last season, and we are expecting her to build on that this year. She was one of the best freshmen in the MIAA last year, and now with more experience, we are excited to see what she can do."
In addition to McMillin, players like junior guard Monica Redondo and the team’s returning post players will bring stability and leadership to the court.
"Monica should have a great year for us," Briggs noted. "Having that experience back in key positions will be huge for us."
The Jets will also benefit from the addition of new talent. Paige Craft, who was sidelined by injury last season, is expected to be a game-changer with her scoring abilities. "She’s a playmaker who fits perfectly into the style of basketball we want to play," Briggs said. Another key addition is junior college transfer Sage Grampsas, who was an All-American at her previous school and will provide shooting and ball-handling to the roster.
"We are excited about the versatility she brings to the team."
The freshman class will also contribute.
"With our freshmen recruiting class, we were looking for three things: rebounding, athleticism,and scoring,” Briggs said.“I think we’ve found that in this group, and they’ll provide valuable minutes for us this season."
Briggs is focused on helping the team take meaningful steps forward.
"I want us to see real progress from where we were last year," she said. "We didn’t always get the results we wanted, but I want the girls to see that their hard work and dedication will pay off. Most importantly, I want them to enjoy the game and have fun throughout the process."
PHOTO: Vantage Archives
