Women's basketball
2008-09 Season Preview
Shooting Stars: Duo Takes Aim at Repeat Tourney Run
Purchase, NY (Nov. 11, 2008) – Purchase College women's hoops high-scoring tandem Jennifer Danio and Jessie Domes are gearing up for another run at the Skyline Conference Tournament.
The upperclassmen combination heads into the 2008-09 campaign minus point guard Jen Ciardulli, who is no longer with the team. The Panthers will also be without reserve guard Amanda Capone, but return a strong core that includes defensive stopper Shayla Diaz and newly anointed center Liila Mack.
Last season, the Panthers finished at 14-13 overall and 9-8 in the league. In the opening round of the tournament, the underdog Panthers defeated No.4 seed
Danio and Domes, both of which were named to the All-Skyline Team last season, anchor a lineup that welcomes freshmen guards Darian Cotto, Jasmine Davis, Alyse La Padula, Miranda Arthur-Smith and forward Sarah Straub, a transfer from Mansfield University – all of which are expected to contribute in the absence of Ciardulli, Capone and graduating seniors Janina Martinez and Kernita Sylvester. Tri-sport athlete Patricia Orellana, an All-Skyline swimmer and softball player will also see time in her first college basketball season at the guard and forward positions.
"This group has the best attitude of any team I’ve coached in my five year’s here," explained Purchase coach Steven Loscher. "There are no jealousies, and I think the chemistry is at an all time high.
"We want to play our best basketball come February and make it to the NCAA Division III Tournament,” added Loscher, who has implemented a new read-and-react offense. "In order to do so, the Panthers will first have to win the Skyline Conference Tournament for their automatic bid."
Purchase opens at home Nov. 15 against local rival Manhattanville. Tip-off is set for 3 p.m.
-Oren Vourman and Bobby Ciafardini, SID
