Bucknell University
Bison WomenS Basketball Looks to End Non-Conference Play on a High Note Against Hofstra
Table of Contents
- Bison WomenS Basketball Looks to End Non-Conference Play on a High Note Against Hofstra
- Bucknell Women’s Basketball Eyes Upset Season After Strong Start
- Bucknell Women’s Basketball Faces Hofstra in Long-Awaited Rematch
- Bison Look to Bounce Back Against Hofstra after Tough Loss to Duquesne
- Bucknell Women’s Basketball Reaches Milestones in Dominant Start
- Bucknell Women’s Basketball: Reviving a Rivalry and Poised for a Breakthrough Season
LEWISBURG, pa. – The Bucknell Bison women’s basketball team (5-5) aims to finish the non-conference portion of their schedule with a victory as thay host the Hofstra Pride (3-6) on Saturday afternoon. Tip-off is set for 2 p.m. at Sojka Pavilion.
This matchup marks a renewal of a long-standing rivalry. Bucknell and Hofstra have a history dating back 22 meetings, but haven’t faced each other as the 1999-2000 season.
The Bison enter the game looking to bounce back from a 65-48 loss to Duquesne on December 10th. The defeat snapped Bucknell’s notable five-game winning streak. Despite a strong start, the bison struggled with turnovers and were out-rebounded by the Dukes.
“We’re looking forward to getting back on the court and finishing the non-conference schedule strong,” said Bucknell head coach Trevor Woodruff. “Hofstra presents a new challenge, and we’re excited to compete against them.”
Bucknell boasts a balanced offensive attack led by sophomore forward Ashley Sofilkanich, who averages 18.7 points and 9.1 rebounds per game. Junior forward/guard Isabella King adds 8.7 points per game,while sophomore guard Anna Kunzwiler contributes 3.9 points and 3.2 rebounds.A win against hofstra would give the Bison a 6-5 record heading into Patriot League play. it would also extend their home record to a perfect 5-0.
Game Details:
What: Bucknell vs. Hofstra
When: Saturday, December 21 at 2 p.m.
Where: Lewisburg, Pa. - Sojka Pavilion
Streaming: ESPN+
Radio: 90.5 WVBU
live Statistics: bucknellbison.com
Fans can follow the action live on ESPN+ and 90.5 WVBU. Live statistics will also be available on bucknellbison.com.
Bucknell Women’s Basketball Eyes Upset Season After Strong Start
lewisburg, PA – The Bucknell Bison women’s basketball team is looking to make a statement this season after a strong start that includes a decisive victory over Duquesne. The bison’s 71-58 win showcased their offensive firepower and defensive prowess, setting the stage for a possibly exciting year.
Bucknell’s three-point shooting was on fire, with the team sinking 10 of 31 attempts.This aggressive approach contrasted with Duquesne, who attempted just 24 three-pointers, making nine. Leading the charge for the Bison was Ashley Sofilkanich, who poured in 15 points, followed by Isabella King with 11. Gabby Hutcherson led Duquesne with 16 points.
This early success builds on a strong foundation laid by Sofilkanich, who has already earned Patriot League player of the Week honors twice this season. This marks the frist time a Bison has won consecutive POW awards since kaitlyn slagus in 2016. Sofilkanich’s dominance extends beyond offense; she’s also a defensive force,ranking ninth nationally in blocks per game (2.70) and earning a spot on the All-Patriot Defensive, Rookie, and Third Teams – a first for any Bison player.
The Bison are a young team with nine newcomers, including six freshmen and three transfers. This influx of talent, combined with the leadership of Sofilkanich and senior captain Isabella King, has created a sense of optimism around the program.
Last season, Bucknell finished 13-18 overall and 9-9 in patriot League play, reaching the Patriot league Quarterfinals before falling to top-seeded Holy Cross. This year, the Bison were picked eighth in the preseason poll, but their early performance suggests they could exceed expectations.Adding to the excitement surrounding the program is the success of Bucknell alumna Taylor O’Brien. O’Brien recently signed with the Essex Rebels of the Women’s British Basketball League after a stellar season with the Leicester Riders, where she earned Player of the Month honors and a spot on the All-League Team.With a talented roster,a strong coaching staff led by Trevor Woodruff,and a hunger to prove themselves,the Bucknell Bison are poised for a breakout season.
Bucknell Women’s Basketball Faces Hofstra in Long-Awaited Rematch
Lewisburg,PA – after a 23-year hiatus,the bucknell Bison women’s basketball team will renew its rivalry with the Hofstra Pride on Wednesday night. The game, set to tip off at 7 p.m. at Sojka Pavilion, marks the 23rd meeting between the two programs.
Bucknell enters the contest with a 3-4 record, coming off a hard-fought loss to Lehigh. The Bison are led by sixth-year head coach Trevor Woodruff, who has already established himself as a force in the Patriot League, earning Coach of the Year honors in his first two seasons.This season, Woodruff boasts a revamped coaching staff. Sherill Baker, a former WNBA player known as “The Queen of Steals” for her defensive prowess at Georgia, was recently promoted to associate head coach. Three new faces have also joined the Bison bench: Owen Brown, formerly of the University of San Francisco; Shelby Case, a University of Illinois-Chicago alumna; and Edward Joyner, who brings 15 years of head coaching experience from Hampton University.
Hofstra, meanwhile, is looking to build on a surprising run in last year’s CAA tournament. Despite finishing 3-15 in conference play, the Pride stormed through the first two rounds, defeating Hampton and William & Mary before falling to NC A&T in the quarterfinals.
This season, Hofstra is 3-6, with wins over NJIT, Yale, and Howard.The pride have faced a tough schedule, dropping games to Florida and Jacksonville. Led by Danielle Santos Atkinson, who is in her sixth season at the helm, Hofstra features a young roster with 14 players, including five transfers.
The Bison and Pride share one common opponent this season: lehigh. Hofstra fell to the Mountain Hawks, while Bucknell lost a close contest.
Wednesday’s matchup promises to be an exciting clash of styles. Bucknell’s experienced coaching staff will look to exploit Hofstra’s youth, while the Pride will aim to use their athleticism and tenacity to pull off an upset.Key Matchup:
Bucknell’s defense, led by Baker’s expertise, will be tested by Hofstra’s young and hungry offense.
What to Watch For:
Can Bucknell’s revamped coaching staff make the difference in a tight game?
Will Hofstra’s young roster be able to handle the pressure of playing on the road?
* Can Bucknell’s offense find its rhythm against a tough Hofstra defense?
Bison Look to Bounce Back Against Hofstra after Tough Loss to Duquesne
Lewisburg, PA – The Bucknell Bison women’s basketball team (5-5) will aim to snap a two-game skid when they face the Hofstra Pride (6-3) on Wednesday night. Tip-off is set for 7 p.m.at the Mack Sports Complex in Hempstead, New York.
Bucknell enters the matchup after a disappointing 65-48 loss to Duquesne on December 10th, ending a five-game winning streak. The Bison struggled offensively, shooting a season-low 28.3% from the field and connecting on just 5 of 22 shots inside the arc.
“We didn’t shoot the ball well, and Duquesne did a good job of controlling the boards,” said head coach Trevor Woodruff. “We need to be more efficient on offense and rebound better if we want to be successful against Hofstra.”
Despite the loss, senior guard Ashley sofilkanich continued her strong play, leading the Bison with 15 points. Sophomore guard Isabella King added 11 points, including three three-pointers.
Hofstra, meanwhile, is coming off a 72-61 victory over St. Francis Brooklyn. The Pride are led by junior guard JaKayla Brown, who averages 15.3 points per game.
Key Matchup:
The Bison will need to find a way to contain Brown, who is Hofstra’s leading scorer. Bucknell’s defense will need to be sharp and disciplined to prevent brown from getting easy baskets.
Players to Watch:
Ashley Sofilkanich (Bucknell): The senior guard is averaging 12.6 points per game and has scored in double figures in nine of Bucknell’s ten games this season.
Isabella King (Bucknell): The sophomore guard recently surpassed 600 career points and is ninth all-time in career three-pointers at Bucknell.
* JaKayla Brown (Hofstra): The junior guard is Hofstra’s leading scorer and a dynamic offensive threat.
What’s at Stake:
A win for Bucknell would get them back on track after a tough loss and give them momentum heading into the holiday break.For hofstra, a victory would extend their winning streak to three games.
How to Watch:
The game will be streamed live on flohoops.
Next Up:
Following Wednesday’s game, Bucknell will return home to face Lafayette on December 30th.
Bucknell Women’s Basketball Reaches Milestones in Dominant Start
Lewisburg,PA – the Bucknell Bison women’s basketball team is off to a roaring start this season,racking up impressive wins and reaching significant milestones along the way.
senior guard Taylor O’Brien became the 10th player in program history to surpass 1,000 career points,achieving the feat against Youngstown State on november 23rd. O’Brien currently sits at 575 points,showcasing her consistent scoring prowess.
Adding to the festivity, head coach Trevor Woodruff secured his 200th career win as a women’s basketball head coach after a decisive victory over Vermont on December 4th. Woodruff’s leadership has been instrumental in the team’s success.
The Bison are poised for a strong season in the Patriot League, demonstrating their talent and determination on the court.
Up Next
The team will enjoy a well-deserved break over the Christmas holidays before returning to Sojka Pavilion on January 2nd to face Lehigh in their Patriot League opener.
Bucknell Women’s Basketball: Reviving a Rivalry and Poised for a Breakthrough Season
NewsDirectory3.com – The Bucknell Bison women’s basketball team is generating a buzz, and for good reason.With a talented roster, a coaching staff making waves, and a renewed sense of purpose, the Bison are looking to make this season one for the books.
Today, we’re joined by Erin Matson, a basketball analyst and commentator, to delve into the exciting developments surrounding Bucknell women’s basketball. Welcome, Erin.
matson: Thanks for having me. I’m excited to talk about Bucknell.They’re a program on the rise, and I think they have the potential for something special this year.
NewsDirectory3.com: let’s start with the upcoming game against Hofstra.It’s been 23 years since these teams last met, making this a highly anticipated rematch. What are your thoughts on this matchup?
Matson: This is a great possibility for Bucknell to make a statement. Hofstra is a scrappy team, but Bucknell is playing some really good basketball right now. They have a balanced offense led by Ashley Sofilkanich, who’s having a breakout year, and a defense that’s capable of shutting down opponents. I think Bucknell has the edge in this one.
NewsDirectory3.com: Sofilkanich seems to be the cornerstone of this Bison team.Her performance has been phenomenal. What makes her such a dominant force on the court?
Matson: Sofilkanich is a complete player. She can score from anywhere on the court, she’s a strong rebounder, and she’s a force on the defensive end. She’s also a natural leader,and her teammates seem to feed off her energy.
NewsDirectory3.com: Beyond Sofilkanich,what other key players shoudl we watch for on the Bucknell squad?
Matson: Isabella King is a versatile player who can score inside and out. She’s a valuable asset to the team. And don’t forget about anna Kunzwiler, who’s a solid contributor on both ends of the court.
NewsDirectory3.com: Bucknell has made critically important strides under Coach Trevor Woodruff. What has he done to elevate this program?
Matson: Woodruff has injected a new level of energy and excitement into the program. He’s a great recruiter, and he’s developed a system that plays to his players’ strengths. He’s also assembled a fantastic coaching staff,with Sherill Baker,a former WNBA player,as a key asset bringing valuable experience and insight.
NewsDirectory3.com: This is all incredibly encouraging for Bison fans. Looking ahead, what are your expectations for Bucknell this season?
Matson: I think bucknell has the potential to make a deep run in the Patriot League tournament. They have the talent and the coaching to compete with anyone in the conference. Don’t be surprised if they’re playing for a championship in March.
NewsDirectory3.com: Thank you for your insights, Erin. It’s been a pleasure speaking with you, and I’m sure Bucknell fans are equally excited about the season ahead.
