Women’s Basketball team conquers Skyline, makes NCAA debut
Photos by Lee Ferris
The 2024-2025 season was a rollercoaster of triumphs and challenges for the Mount Saint Mary College Women’s Basketball team, culminating in a historic Skyline Conference Championship and a memorable appearance in the NCAA Tournament.
From intense matchups to hard-fought victories, the Knights proved their mettle, leaving an indelible mark on the program’s history.
Becoming Skyline champs
The journey to the Skyline Conference Championship was paved with determination. Near the middle of the semester, the Knights faced a crucial semifinal showdown against familiar rivals, Mount Saint Vincent. Eager to avenge a tough loss from the previous season, the Knights delivered a commanding performance, securing a decisive 68-51 victory. This win was fueled by outstanding individual efforts, notably Lauren Petrie’s career-high 19 points and Kate Hughes’ season-high 15 points, propelling the Knights directly into the Skyline Conference Championship game.
One play from the game was so impressive that it was featured on ESPN: Not only did Angelina Donato, a Biology/Pre-Physical Therapy major, keep what would have been an out-of-bounds ball in-play, she managed to get a three-pointer at the same time.
The stage was set for the ultimate conference battle on March 1, as the Knights traveled to Kings Point to face the formidable #1 seeded, Merchant Marine. In a testament to their unwavering spirit and cohesive teamwork, the Knights triumphed, clinching the coveted Skyline Conference title.
Stepping onto the national stage
With the Skyline championship secured, the Knights earned their place in the NCAA Tournament, a thrilling opportunity to compete against the nation’s elite. Their journey led them to a challenging first-round matchup against the #3 ranked University of Scranton, a powerhouse in collegiate women’s basketball.
The NCAA Tournament game presented a stark test for the newly crowned Skyline Champions. Scranton quickly established control with an aggressive start. Despite the Knights’ best efforts, Scranton maintained their lead throughout the game. It was a tough loss for the Knights, but the experience of competing on such a grand stage was invaluable for the Mount team. Lauren Petrie once again led the charge for the Knights, contributing 7 points and grabbing 5 rebounds in a tenacious effort.
A season to remember
As the final buzzer sounded on their NCAA Tournament journey, the Women’s Basketball team concluded a remarkable season. Despite the early exit from the national tournament, their achievement as Skyline Conference Champions stands as a testament to their hard work, resilience, and growth throughout the year.
The season also marked the end of collegiate careers for several impactful seniors who left their legacy as Skyline Conference Champions: Casey Love, Lauren Petrie, Shannon Phelan, Lizzy Lofaro, Kate Hughes, Ciarra Quinn, and Erin Lofaro. Their contributions, leadership, and dedication were instrumental to the team’s success.
