Make sure to check out the following website for up to date schedules, results, news and more as we try and advance to our 3rd Championship in 5 years!!
http://www.maacachusettes.com/
Go Gaels!!
Wednesday, October 5, 2011
Monday, August 15, 2011
Iona College Summer Basketball Camp
This past week we wrapped up our annual summer basketball camp, run by our new Director of Basketball Operations Tim Gardner and our new Assistant Director of Basketball Operations Eric Alston.
The camp was filled with great competition, drills, games and prizes! The campers also enjoyed ending the hot days by taking a swim in the pool!! We would like to thank all the campers who came and look forward to another successful camp next year!!
Monday, June 6, 2011
NCAA Public Recognition Award
Here at Iona we are always talking about how important academics are for our players and how successful they will be when they attend Iona College. Last week, the NCAA released the most recent APR scores. The APR is a score calculated by the NCAA indicating team academic performance. Under the NCAA rules, teams scoring below 925 on a 1000 point scale are penalized.
In the NCAA's latest APR, the Iona College Women's Basketball Team was one of 909 teams that earned the NCAA Public Recognition Awards, based on our most recent multi-year Academic Progress Rates. Other schools included on the prestigious list are Princeton, Holy Cross, Darmouth, Lehigh,Michigan and Villanova to name a few. These awards are given each year to teams scoring in the top 10 percent in each sport with their APRs.
Our program has earned this the honor for the SECOND straight year and is the only Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference program to be honored during the time frame. The program holds a 996 APR, the highest among MAAC programs. Iona is one of 30 Division I women's basketball programs to earn the award in back-to-back years.
"I'm extremely proud of our program's accomplishments both on and off the floor and it's a tremendous honor to be recognized nationally for the second straight year for our efforts in the classroom," said women's basketball head coach Anthony Bozzella. "It's a privilege to be able to mentor such well-rounded young ladies."
Monday, May 23, 2011
2010-2011 End of the Year Banquet
The Iona College women’s basketball team held its annual end-of-the-year awards banquet on Wednesday, May 11, 2011. The ceremony took place in the McGrath Room of the LaPenta Student Union.
This season had its ups and downs, but the Gaels achieved a lot to be proud of.
Iona earned a first-round bye in the MAAC Tournament for the sixth year in a row. The Gaels had two All-MAAC honorees: junior forward Kristina Ford and senior forward Anda Ivkovic. Six players earned recognition on the MAAC All-Academic Team: Suzi Fregosi, Catherine Lutz, Robin Felder, Milica Paligoric, Haley D’Angelo, and Jessica Scannell.
While emphasizing that this year’s success was a total team effort, the coaching staff distributed a number of individual awards at the banquet.
Senior guard Suzi Fregosi received the Scholar Athlete Award, presented by associate head coach Christi Abbate. Fregosi has earned a B.S. degree in biology and has already begun pursuing a Master’s degree in education. Fregosi has excelled in her rigorous cours
ework while also meeting the demands of playing college basketball. Fregosi has made the Dean’s List every semester and has earned distinction on the MAAC All-Academic Team every year in which she has been eligible for the honor.Sophomore guard Haley D'Angelo received the Best Weightlifter Award, presented by strength and conditioning coach Conor Hughes. Hughes emphasized that this award goes beyond weightlifting, reflecting the recipient's outstanding commitment, preparation, and motivation in all of the team's workouts. D'Angelo has exhibited an outstanding work ethic, enduring the rigors of conditioning without complaining.
Head Coach Anthony Bozzella presented the Sixth Man Award to two recipients: Fr. Frank Dixon and Michael Sacks. Fr. Dixon serves as the Iona College Chaplain, and he is an avid fan of Iona women’s basketball. Sacks covered the team for The Ionian as an undergraduate, and he has remained a supporter of the program since graduating from Iona in 2008.
Freshman guard Jackie Marshall received the Unsung Player Award, presented by assistant coach Ashlee Kelly. Marshall has fully understood and embraced her role, appreciating the opportunity to be part of the team. Exemplifying her unselfishness, Marshall has made significant sacrifices for the betterment of her team and her family.
Senior guard Marissa Flagg received the Dr. Rosenberg Award, presented by Provost Dr. Warren Rosenberg, the program's moderator. Flagg plays hard, puts the team ahead of herself, trains hard, and demonstrates a commitment to academics. Flagg has a good attitude, exhibits perseverance, and has a smile that lights up a room.
Junior guard Tomica Bacic received the Most Consistent Player Award, presented by Coach Bozzella. Bacic has demonstrated consistency and stability – mentally, physically, and emotionally. Bacic has played a number of different positions and taken on a wide range of responsibilities, doing whatever it takes to help the team.
In addition to the awards, the evening also included a slideshow presentation prepared by Dr. Rosenberg. This slideshow featured numerous pictures from throughout the year. Dr. Rosenberg's expert photography captured the spirit of the season and portrayed the personalities of the team members. Dr. Rosenberg set the presentation to music, which reflected the mood of the pictures.
Coach Bozzella acknowledged the team's student-managers, who play a vital role in the program’s operation by performing many tasks behind the scenes. Coach Bozzella announced that senior Eric Alston, the head student-manager, will be joining the coaching staff next year as the video coordinator.
Near the end of the banquet, the Gaels paid tribute to the team’s three seniors: Flagg, Ivkovic, and Lutz. This senior class has had a spectacular run at Iona. Over the past four years, the Gaels have amassed 67 wins (an average of about 17 wins per year), advanced to three MAAC final fours, and participated in two postseason WNITs. Furthermore, these seniors have excelled academically and distinguished themselves as model citizens.
Coach Bozzella emphasized the program’s theme for next year: “We are … Iona.” This theme indicates the team’s unity, confidence, strong sense of identity, and pride in the program’s rich tradition.
The banquet featured an exquisite dinner and dessert.
It was truly a special evening for the Iona College women’s basketball program.
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Powell, Dorcas-Eya Round Out Our 2011 Recruiting Class
Iona College women's basketball head coach Anthony Bozzella has announced the signing of two players to National Letters of Intent during the late signing period. Aleesha Powell, a 5'6" point guard from Philadelphia, PA and Jiya Dorcas-Eya, a 6'2" forward from Lagos, Nigeria will join the Gael squad for the 2011-12 season.
“I am so pleased that these two outstanding student-athletes have decided to join our family here at Iona," said assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Ashlee Kelly. "Aleesha will bring a toughness and great leadership in the point guard role at Iona, and I feel Jiya brings so many intangibles that we need in the program, such as rebounding and blocking shots. She is a true competitor.”
Powell, who will graduate from William Penn Charter School, has averaged 14 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals per game for her career. She was named MVP during each of her four years at Penn Charter and had 1,510 total career points. Powell is ranked among the Top 100 for point guards in the Class of 2011 by ESPN HoopGurlz and is a McDonald’s All-American nominee. Powell started at point guard for the nationally ranked AAU Philadelphia Belles Nike Elite Team.
"I am really excited to have a player of Aleesha’s character and ability joining our Iona women’s basketball family,” Bozzella added. “I am sure she will follow in the footsteps in our great point guard tradition here at Iona.”
Dorcas-Eya, who will graduate from Northwest Florida State College, is known for her athleticism, rebounding and shot blocking. She helped NJCAA D1 Northwest Florida State to an impressive 24-7 record and an end of the season national ranking of #8. She ended her career at Northwest Florida State losing to undefeated and nationally #1 ranked Pensacola. She is one of five sophomores on her team to go on to play in Division I.
"I am so excited that Jiya has committed to our family. She is a wonderful young woman with tremendous personal qualities and values. I feel that she will have an immediate impact in our program and I am really excited to coach her during the next two years,” said Bozzella.
The duo rounds out the incoming class for 2011-2012, as they will join ESPNU’s Top 100 Nationally Ranked freshman guard Damika Martinez (Meriden, CT/O.H. Platt) and McDonald’s All-American nominee forward Briana Graham (Dearborn, MI/Martin Luther King), as newcomers for the Gaels next season.
“I am so pleased that these two outstanding student-athletes have decided to join our family here at Iona," said assistant coach and recruiting coordinator Ashlee Kelly. "Aleesha will bring a toughness and great leadership in the point guard role at Iona, and I feel Jiya brings so many intangibles that we need in the program, such as rebounding and blocking shots. She is a true competitor.”
Powell, who will graduate from William Penn Charter School, has averaged 14 points, five rebounds, four assists and three steals per game for her career. She was named MVP during each of her four years at Penn Charter and had 1,510 total career points. Powell is ranked among the Top 100 for point guards in the Class of 2011 by ESPN HoopGurlz and is a McDonald’s All-American nominee. Powell started at point guard for the nationally ranked AAU Philadelphia Belles Nike Elite Team.
"I am really excited to have a player of Aleesha’s character and ability joining our Iona women’s basketball family,” Bozzella added. “I am sure she will follow in the footsteps in our great point guard tradition here at Iona.”
Dorcas-Eya, who will graduate from Northwest Florida State College, is known for her athleticism, rebounding and shot blocking. She helped NJCAA D1 Northwest Florida State to an impressive 24-7 record and an end of the season national ranking of #8. She ended her career at Northwest Florida State losing to undefeated and nationally #1 ranked Pensacola. She is one of five sophomores on her team to go on to play in Division I.
"I am so excited that Jiya has committed to our family. She is a wonderful young woman with tremendous personal qualities and values. I feel that she will have an immediate impact in our program and I am really excited to coach her during the next two years,” said Bozzella.
The duo rounds out the incoming class for 2011-2012, as they will join ESPNU’s Top 100 Nationally Ranked freshman guard Damika Martinez (Meriden, CT/O.H. Platt) and McDonald’s All-American nominee forward Briana Graham (Dearborn, MI/Martin Luther King), as newcomers for the Gaels next season.
Thursday, March 10, 2011
Gaels Celebrate Senior Day
By Michael Sacks
The Iona College women's basketball team celebrated Senior Day on Sunday, February 27, 2011. The Gaels honored seniors Marissa Flagg, Anda Ivkovic, and Catherine Lutz.
The Senior Day celebration occurred in conjunction with the Gaels' final home game of the year, a 57-51 loss to Manhattan. The festivities included a pre-game ceremony and a post-game reception.
This senior class has had a spectacular run at Iona. Over the past four years, the Gaels have amassed 67 wins (an average of about 17 wins per year), advanced to three MAAC final fours, and participated in two postseason WNITs. Furthermore, these seniors have excelled academically and distinguished themselves as model citizens.
"These seniors have been great ambassadors for the program throughout their careers," Head Coach Anthony Bozzella said. "They have represented Iona with class and dignity the whole time."
Flagg, a 5-foot-5 guard from Queens, N.Y., has had an extraordinary career at Iona. She has played in 95 career games, compiling 370 points, 198 assists, and 141 steals. Flagg ranks in the top 20 in program history in career assists and career steals.
A tenacious defender and a gifted playmaker, Flagg has contributed in a number of ways for Iona. Flagg’s talent, leadership, and charismatic personality make her an exceptionally valuable player for the Gaels.
Flagg, a criminal justice major, serves as president of Iona’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C.).
Ivkovic, a 6-foot-1 forward from Subotica, Serbia, has had a remarkable career at Iona. She has played in 113 career games, scoring 1,159 points, grabbing 479 rebounds, and recording a .420 field-goal percentage.
Ivkovic has had a huge impact on Iona's success. A resilient competitor, Ivkovic has overcome several injuries throughout her career. Ivkovic has distinguished herself as one of the premier players in the MAAC, earning All-MAAC accolades as a sophomore, junior, and senior.
Ivkovic, a criminal justice major, ranks among the program's career leaders in points (10th), free throws made (fifth), and games played (eighth).
Lutz, a 6-foot-1 guard/forward from Easton, Pa., has had an outstanding career at Iona. She has played in 96 career games, compiling 429 points and 141 rebounds.
A terrific shooter and an intelligent player, Lutz has played a key role in the Gaels’ success. Lutz ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in three-point field goals made (106), three-point field goal percentage (.312), and free throw percentage (.756).
Lutz, a psychology major, has earned distinction on the MAAC all-academic team every year in which she has been eligible for this honor.
During the pre-game ceremony on Senior Day, the Gaels presented each of the seniors with a framed replica of their jerseys, a framed action photo, a bouquet of flowers, and balloons.
Iona also honored the team's two senior managers, Eric Alston and Noel Emanuel. The managers play an integral role in the functioning of the program. They perform a multitude of tasks behind the scenes, and they are an immense help to the team.
After the game, the team gathered in the LaPenta Student Union for a reception in honor of Senior Day. This event featured a delicious meal and a touching slide show tribute to the seniors, prepared by Provost Dr. Warren Rosenberg, the program's moderator.
Senior Day was truly a special day for the Iona College women's basketball program.
The Iona College women's basketball team celebrated Senior Day on Sunday, February 27, 2011. The Gaels honored seniors Marissa Flagg, Anda Ivkovic, and Catherine Lutz.
The Senior Day celebration occurred in conjunction with the Gaels' final home game of the year, a 57-51 loss to Manhattan. The festivities included a pre-game ceremony and a post-game reception.
This senior class has had a spectacular run at Iona. Over the past four years, the Gaels have amassed 67 wins (an average of about 17 wins per year), advanced to three MAAC final fours, and participated in two postseason WNITs. Furthermore, these seniors have excelled academically and distinguished themselves as model citizens.
"These seniors have been great ambassadors for the program throughout their careers," Head Coach Anthony Bozzella said. "They have represented Iona with class and dignity the whole time."
Flagg, a 5-foot-5 guard from Queens, N.Y., has had an extraordinary career at Iona. She has played in 95 career games, compiling 370 points, 198 assists, and 141 steals. Flagg ranks in the top 20 in program history in career assists and career steals.
A tenacious defender and a gifted playmaker, Flagg has contributed in a number of ways for Iona. Flagg’s talent, leadership, and charismatic personality make her an exceptionally valuable player for the Gaels.
Flagg, a criminal justice major, serves as president of Iona’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (S.A.A.C.).
Ivkovic, a 6-foot-1 forward from Subotica, Serbia, has had a remarkable career at Iona. She has played in 113 career games, scoring 1,159 points, grabbing 479 rebounds, and recording a .420 field-goal percentage.
Ivkovic has had a huge impact on Iona's success. A resilient competitor, Ivkovic has overcome several injuries throughout her career. Ivkovic has distinguished herself as one of the premier players in the MAAC, earning All-MAAC accolades as a sophomore, junior, and senior.
Ivkovic, a criminal justice major, ranks among the program's career leaders in points (10th), free throws made (fifth), and games played (eighth).
Lutz, a 6-foot-1 guard/forward from Easton, Pa., has had an outstanding career at Iona. She has played in 96 career games, compiling 429 points and 141 rebounds.
A terrific shooter and an intelligent player, Lutz has played a key role in the Gaels’ success. Lutz ranks among the program’s all-time leaders in three-point field goals made (106), three-point field goal percentage (.312), and free throw percentage (.756).
Lutz, a psychology major, has earned distinction on the MAAC all-academic team every year in which she has been eligible for this honor.
During the pre-game ceremony on Senior Day, the Gaels presented each of the seniors with a framed replica of their jerseys, a framed action photo, a bouquet of flowers, and balloons.
Iona also honored the team's two senior managers, Eric Alston and Noel Emanuel. The managers play an integral role in the functioning of the program. They perform a multitude of tasks behind the scenes, and they are an immense help to the team.
After the game, the team gathered in the LaPenta Student Union for a reception in honor of Senior Day. This event featured a delicious meal and a touching slide show tribute to the seniors, prepared by Provost Dr. Warren Rosenberg, the program's moderator.
Senior Day was truly a special day for the Iona College women's basketball program.
Tuesday, March 1, 2011
Gaels Can't Tame Jaspers on Senior Night
The Gaels were playing catch-up all second half, but couldn't overcome Manhattan's Abby Wentworth and company. Iona made a 9-3 run at the end of the game to cut it to six, but it was not enough, ending the game with a 57-51 defeat. Juniors Milicia Paligoric and Kris Ford led the Gaels with Paligoric's double-double and Ford's 12 points and seven rebounds. Seniors Anda Ivkovic tallied 10 points and five boards, while Marissa Flagg dished out four assists.
The Gaels take on Manhattan again Friday to open up MAAC Tournament play in Webster Bank Arena at Harbor Yard in Brideport, CT. Come out and support the Gaels!
The Gaels take on Manhattan again Friday to open up MAAC Tournament play in Webster Bank Arena at Harbor Yard in Brideport, CT. Come out and support the Gaels!
Wednesday, February 9, 2011
Little Hoopstars Play at Iona
The following is a link to an article written on "the loop" blog by Polly Kreisman.
http://theloopny.com/2011/02/05/little-hoopsters-play-at-iona/
http://theloopny.com/2011/02/05/little-hoopsters-play-at-iona/
Gaels Lose Two Straight
The Iona College women's basketball team (9-14, 5-6 MAAC) lost a gutsy overtime battle, falling 67-63 to Fairfield (15-7, 8-3 MAAC) to end a four-game winning streak. The loss also put a stop to the Gaels' string of seven consecutive home victories over the Stags.
After falling behind 4-0 to begin the night, Iona scored eight straight points to lead 8-4 six minutes into the contest. With the exception of a 10-10 tie and a fleeting one-point Fairfield edge, the Maroon & Gold led for the remainder of the first half and was in front by as many as eight points at the 6:21 mark. The Stags cut it to one on an 8-1 run and pulled in front on a layup by Alexys Vazquez with 1:16 to go in the half. A steal by Tomica Bacic led to a Jessica Scannell trifecta as Iona regained the advantage to take a 27-25 lead into the locker room.
The close-matched second half showcased eight tied scores, with the lead changing hands eight times and neither team able to break away by more than five at any point. The Gaels were ahead 57-55 with five seconds left in regulation when Katelyn Linney drove to the basket for a score to force Iona's second overtime situation in three games.
The Gaels controlled the jump ball to open the extra frame and pulled in front by two on a jumper by Bacic. The Stags then registered the next six points, four coming from Taryn Johnson, and went on to outscore Iona 10-6 in the period.
Anda Ivkovic recorded her third consecutive double-double, leading Iona with 20 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Bacic followed with 15 points and eight boards while Marissa Flagg added nine points and led all players with six assists.
On Sunday the 6th,Senior Anda Ivkovic recorded her record-setting fourth consecutive double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds as the Iona College women's basketball team was beaten in double overtime at Rider by a score of 93-87.
Tied at 65 at the end of regulation, Iona opened the first overtime period scoring nine of ten points, including five by Jackie Marshall, to lead 74-66 with 3:07 on the clock. Trailing by eight once again with 2:06 left, Rider ended the frame on an 8-0 run.
The Gaels seemed to have a win in hand, leading 78-75 with time running out. The Broncs' Shereen Lightbourne put up a last-ditch three point shot as the clock ran down to zero, but a foul was called on Iona to send Lightbourne to the line with 0.3 seconds on the board. Lightbourne hit all three attempts, tying the score at 78-all to force a second overtime.
Rider opened the final overtime with a 7-2 run and led by as much as seven (89-82) with 24 seconds remaining. Iona cut the difference to four twice down the stretch, but could not get any closer.
Marshall finished with career highs in points (17), three-pointers (5), rebounds (3), and minutes (21). Kristina Ford posted her fourth double digit performance in five games with 12 points, despite struggling at just 3-for-17 from the floor. Marissa Flagg added ten points and a team-high seven assists while Tomica Bacic also had ten points.
Iona played its third overtime contest in four games, dropping its second straight in extra minutes. The squad next hosts Marist on Feb. 11 in a game to be televised on ESPNU beginning at 4:30 pm.
After falling behind 4-0 to begin the night, Iona scored eight straight points to lead 8-4 six minutes into the contest. With the exception of a 10-10 tie and a fleeting one-point Fairfield edge, the Maroon & Gold led for the remainder of the first half and was in front by as many as eight points at the 6:21 mark. The Stags cut it to one on an 8-1 run and pulled in front on a layup by Alexys Vazquez with 1:16 to go in the half. A steal by Tomica Bacic led to a Jessica Scannell trifecta as Iona regained the advantage to take a 27-25 lead into the locker room.
The close-matched second half showcased eight tied scores, with the lead changing hands eight times and neither team able to break away by more than five at any point. The Gaels were ahead 57-55 with five seconds left in regulation when Katelyn Linney drove to the basket for a score to force Iona's second overtime situation in three games.
The Gaels controlled the jump ball to open the extra frame and pulled in front by two on a jumper by Bacic. The Stags then registered the next six points, four coming from Taryn Johnson, and went on to outscore Iona 10-6 in the period.
Anda Ivkovic recorded her third consecutive double-double, leading Iona with 20 points and a game-high 14 rebounds. Bacic followed with 15 points and eight boards while Marissa Flagg added nine points and led all players with six assists.
On Sunday the 6th,Senior Anda Ivkovic recorded her record-setting fourth consecutive double-double with 18 points and 11 rebounds as the Iona College women's basketball team was beaten in double overtime at Rider by a score of 93-87.
Tied at 65 at the end of regulation, Iona opened the first overtime period scoring nine of ten points, including five by Jackie Marshall, to lead 74-66 with 3:07 on the clock. Trailing by eight once again with 2:06 left, Rider ended the frame on an 8-0 run.
The Gaels seemed to have a win in hand, leading 78-75 with time running out. The Broncs' Shereen Lightbourne put up a last-ditch three point shot as the clock ran down to zero, but a foul was called on Iona to send Lightbourne to the line with 0.3 seconds on the board. Lightbourne hit all three attempts, tying the score at 78-all to force a second overtime.
Rider opened the final overtime with a 7-2 run and led by as much as seven (89-82) with 24 seconds remaining. Iona cut the difference to four twice down the stretch, but could not get any closer.
Marshall finished with career highs in points (17), three-pointers (5), rebounds (3), and minutes (21). Kristina Ford posted her fourth double digit performance in five games with 12 points, despite struggling at just 3-for-17 from the floor. Marissa Flagg added ten points and a team-high seven assists while Tomica Bacic also had ten points.
Iona played its third overtime contest in four games, dropping its second straight in extra minutes. The squad next hosts Marist on Feb. 11 in a game to be televised on ESPNU beginning at 4:30 pm.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Gaels Give Back
On Saturday January 22nd, the Iona players and staff participated in helping give back to the local Mamaroneck community. They traveled to Hommocks Middle School to put on a basketball clinic for young girls interested in sports. The Gaels coached the girls in scrimmages and relay races. The Iona program really enjoyed spending time with the girls and helping them become better players!
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Iona Wins Third Straight
Following Iona's 15 point win against Canisius, the Gaels stayed tough and pulled out an overtime victory at Siena.Kristina Ford and Anda Ivkovic recorded just the second and third Iona double-doubles of the year; Ford leading with a season-best 19 points and 11 rebounds while Ivkovic added 12 points and ten boards. As a team, the Gaels outrebounded the Saints 54-44.
The Saints led 32-23 at intermission and were up by six with 3:44 left in the second half. Ford knocked down a jumper to cut the lead to four with 3:20 to play and Ivkovic drained a three-point shot, bringing the Gaels within one with 1:41 on the clock. Siena's Maja Gerlyng connected on two free throw attempts to push the margin back up to three at 50-47. With 20.7 seconds remaining in regulation, Ford nailed her only trey of the night to knot the score at 50-all and send the game into overtime.
In the five extra minutes, Iona was able to hold Siena to an 0-4 shooting performance while picking up points on a layup by Marissa Flagg and a trio of foul shots by Ford and Tomica Bacic. Iona's defense was once again a key factor in the team's success as the Saints could only manage 18 points in the last 25 minutes of play, with just one field goal and three points past the 9:17 mark of the second half.
The Saints led 32-23 at intermission and were up by six with 3:44 left in the second half. Ford knocked down a jumper to cut the lead to four with 3:20 to play and Ivkovic drained a three-point shot, bringing the Gaels within one with 1:41 on the clock. Siena's Maja Gerlyng connected on two free throw attempts to push the margin back up to three at 50-47. With 20.7 seconds remaining in regulation, Ford nailed her only trey of the night to knot the score at 50-all and send the game into overtime.
In the five extra minutes, Iona was able to hold Siena to an 0-4 shooting performance while picking up points on a layup by Marissa Flagg and a trio of foul shots by Ford and Tomica Bacic. Iona's defense was once again a key factor in the team's success as the Saints could only manage 18 points in the last 25 minutes of play, with just one field goal and three points past the 9:17 mark of the second half.
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Iona Gets Second League Win Against Rider
NEW ROCHELLE, NY - Junior Tomica Bacic scored a career-high 22 points to lead the Iona College women's basketball team in a 92-61 victory over Rider at the Hynes Athletics Center. The Gaels (6-13 overall) ended a two-game losing streak and picked up their second league win to improve to 2-5 in MAAC play.
Iona led for all but four minutes, when Rider (2-16, 2-5 MAAC) took a three-point advantage on back-to-back field goals by Ali Heller and Caitlin Bopp early in the first half. The Gaels quickly came back from the 10-7 deficit and moved in front for good on a jumper by Bacic at the 10:21 mark. Iona mounted a 21-6 run over the final 9:18 of the half to lead 34-17 at the break.
The squad went on to shoot a sparkling 61.3% in the second half with six three-pointers. Iona had a season-best nine treys in the game and also set a new standard for the year with a 52.5% field goal percentage. The team's 92 points were the most since putting up the same number at Rider during the 2008-09 campaign.
Bacic was one rebound shy of a double-double, adding nine boards to her 22 points. She shot 7-9 from the floor and was a perfect 7-7 at the free throw line. Marissa Flagg had 11 points, and Milica Paligoric and Anda Ivkovic followed with ten points apiece. Paligoric added seven rebounds. Catherine Lutz (9 pts) and Jackie Marshall (8 pts) both picked up season highs.
Iona tries to continue the streak today against Canisius at 2 p.m. at home. Come out and cheer the Gaels on!
Iona led for all but four minutes, when Rider (2-16, 2-5 MAAC) took a three-point advantage on back-to-back field goals by Ali Heller and Caitlin Bopp early in the first half. The Gaels quickly came back from the 10-7 deficit and moved in front for good on a jumper by Bacic at the 10:21 mark. Iona mounted a 21-6 run over the final 9:18 of the half to lead 34-17 at the break.
The squad went on to shoot a sparkling 61.3% in the second half with six three-pointers. Iona had a season-best nine treys in the game and also set a new standard for the year with a 52.5% field goal percentage. The team's 92 points were the most since putting up the same number at Rider during the 2008-09 campaign.
Bacic was one rebound shy of a double-double, adding nine boards to her 22 points. She shot 7-9 from the floor and was a perfect 7-7 at the free throw line. Marissa Flagg had 11 points, and Milica Paligoric and Anda Ivkovic followed with ten points apiece. Paligoric added seven rebounds. Catherine Lutz (9 pts) and Jackie Marshall (8 pts) both picked up season highs.
Iona tries to continue the streak today against Canisius at 2 p.m. at home. Come out and cheer the Gaels on!
Wednesday, January 12, 2011
Gaels Get First MAAC Win Over Niagara
Iona snapped a five-game losing streak with a 71-56 home victory over Niagara (1-14, 0-4 MAAC) in conference action at the Hynes Center. Anda Ivkovic had a game-leading 22 points to match her season high and recorded her 1,000th career point in the win.
The Gaels trailed by six points at halftime and were down by as much as ten with 15:56 left in the second half. A pair of three-point field goals by Diana Hubbard bookended a 15-4 Iona run which put the squad ahead, 43-42, at the 10:42 mark.
The two sides then swapped the lead four times, with Iona moving in front for good on a Hubbard layup with 6:05 on the clock. Ivkovic scored the next six points and, on a bucket at 4:11, became the 21st player in Iona history and the sixth under head coach Anthony Bozzella to reach the 1,000 career point plateau. The Gaels steadily increased the advantage to take their largest lead by the final buzzer and win by 15.
Iona earned its 12th straight victory over Niagara, whose 36 turnovers were the most by a Gael opponent this season. Sophomores Hubbard and Haley D'Angelo both recorded career highs, Hubbard compiling 13 points and D'Angelo banking six. Kristina Ford had 14 points and joined Ivkovic to lead the squad with seven rebounds apiece. Marissa Flagg added eight points and a game-high six assists. Iona's 18 steals in the contest were also a season best. The Gaels hope to continue their winning way at St.Peter's on January 13th.
The Gaels trailed by six points at halftime and were down by as much as ten with 15:56 left in the second half. A pair of three-point field goals by Diana Hubbard bookended a 15-4 Iona run which put the squad ahead, 43-42, at the 10:42 mark.
The two sides then swapped the lead four times, with Iona moving in front for good on a Hubbard layup with 6:05 on the clock. Ivkovic scored the next six points and, on a bucket at 4:11, became the 21st player in Iona history and the sixth under head coach Anthony Bozzella to reach the 1,000 career point plateau. The Gaels steadily increased the advantage to take their largest lead by the final buzzer and win by 15.
Iona earned its 12th straight victory over Niagara, whose 36 turnovers were the most by a Gael opponent this season. Sophomores Hubbard and Haley D'Angelo both recorded career highs, Hubbard compiling 13 points and D'Angelo banking six. Kristina Ford had 14 points and joined Ivkovic to lead the squad with seven rebounds apiece. Marissa Flagg added eight points and a game-high six assists. Iona's 18 steals in the contest were also a season best. The Gaels hope to continue their winning way at St.Peter's on January 13th.
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Siena Too Much for Iona
After ending its non-league slate with a two-game trip out west, the Iona College women's basketball team began the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference portion of the season with a home contest against Siena at the Hynes Athletics Center. Playing in New Rochelle for just the fourth time in nearly two months of action, the Gaels (4-9, 0-1 MAAC) dropped a 60-55 decision to the Saints (3-8, 1-0 MAAC).
The close-matched conference opener featured seven ties and ten lead changes, with niether team pulling away by more than seven points at any time. Knotted at 26-26 after the first half of action, Siena scored the first four points of the second half to lead 30-26. Iona answered to tie things up at 34-all with 14:50 on the clock.
The two squads kept it tight until a three-point play by Maja Gerlyng was followed by two straight baskets by Serena Moore, giving the Saints a 55-48 advantage with 4:17 to go. Gerlyng would lead all players with 20 points while Moore totaled 19 points and six rebounds.
Down by six with just 36 seconds left in the contest, Iona put forth one last push and closed the gap to three on a trifecta by Kristina Ford with 20 seconds remaining. Siena then put a cap on the day with a pair of free throws from Gerlyng to secure the win.
Anda Ivkovic led Iona with 19 points, banking 7-of-14 from the floor and 4-of-4 at the stripe. Next was Milica Paligoric with ten points who, along with Tomica Bacic, had a team-high eight boards. Ford and Haley D'Angelo each picked up five assists, and freshman Jackie Marshall made her first appearance in Maroon & Gold.
The Gaels are back in road action when they take on defending MAAC champion Marist at 7:30 pm on Jan. 4.
The close-matched conference opener featured seven ties and ten lead changes, with niether team pulling away by more than seven points at any time. Knotted at 26-26 after the first half of action, Siena scored the first four points of the second half to lead 30-26. Iona answered to tie things up at 34-all with 14:50 on the clock.
The two squads kept it tight until a three-point play by Maja Gerlyng was followed by two straight baskets by Serena Moore, giving the Saints a 55-48 advantage with 4:17 to go. Gerlyng would lead all players with 20 points while Moore totaled 19 points and six rebounds.
Down by six with just 36 seconds left in the contest, Iona put forth one last push and closed the gap to three on a trifecta by Kristina Ford with 20 seconds remaining. Siena then put a cap on the day with a pair of free throws from Gerlyng to secure the win.
Anda Ivkovic led Iona with 19 points, banking 7-of-14 from the floor and 4-of-4 at the stripe. Next was Milica Paligoric with ten points who, along with Tomica Bacic, had a team-high eight boards. Ford and Haley D'Angelo each picked up five assists, and freshman Jackie Marshall made her first appearance in Maroon & Gold.
The Gaels are back in road action when they take on defending MAAC champion Marist at 7:30 pm on Jan. 4.
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Gaels Drop Two in Arizona
The Gaels broke a two-game winning streak with a 79-32 loss at Arizona (9-2).
The Maroon & Gold struggled offensively, shooting a season-low 20.0% from the floor. Junior Kristina Ford was the squad's high scorer with nine points and added five rebounds, one block, and a game-leading four steals. Milica Paligoric led off the glass with eight boards while she and sophomore Diana Hubbard posted five points each.
The Wildcats scored the first four points of the contest before Iona cut it to 4-3 on a three-pointer by Hubbard at 18:14. The hosts then surged to a 28-12 advantage by the 7:45 mark before logging 13 straight points to lead 41-12 with a minute and a half to go in the opening period. The Gaels closed first half scoring on a jumper by Tomica Bacic with 40 seconds remaining. Arizona would then open the second half with a 13-0 run over the first 5:20.
The Gaels were forced to play without senior captain Suzi Fregosi, and the team's second-leading scorer, Anda Ivkovic, was limited to just 14 minutes of playing time with back pain.
On the 28th Iona played at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level, the Iona College women's basketball team closed its non-conference schedule at Northern Arizona (5-8). The Gaels (4-8) were defeated by a score of 74-57.
Sophomore Diana Hubbard led three Iona players in double figures with 12 points and also led the squad with seven rebounds. Seniors Anda Ivkovic and Marissa Flagg added ten points apiece while junior Kristina Ford had eight. Sarah Schoof posted a career-high four points.
For the Lumberjacks, Tyler Stephens-Jenkins led all players with 19 points. Northern Arizona led 43-37 on the boards but were outshot by Iona, 40.4% to 39.4%.
The Maroon & Gold opens Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference action with a 2:00 pm home contest against Siena today.
The Maroon & Gold struggled offensively, shooting a season-low 20.0% from the floor. Junior Kristina Ford was the squad's high scorer with nine points and added five rebounds, one block, and a game-leading four steals. Milica Paligoric led off the glass with eight boards while she and sophomore Diana Hubbard posted five points each.
The Wildcats scored the first four points of the contest before Iona cut it to 4-3 on a three-pointer by Hubbard at 18:14. The hosts then surged to a 28-12 advantage by the 7:45 mark before logging 13 straight points to lead 41-12 with a minute and a half to go in the opening period. The Gaels closed first half scoring on a jumper by Tomica Bacic with 40 seconds remaining. Arizona would then open the second half with a 13-0 run over the first 5:20.
The Gaels were forced to play without senior captain Suzi Fregosi, and the team's second-leading scorer, Anda Ivkovic, was limited to just 14 minutes of playing time with back pain.
On the 28th Iona played at an elevation of 7,000 feet above sea level, the Iona College women's basketball team closed its non-conference schedule at Northern Arizona (5-8). The Gaels (4-8) were defeated by a score of 74-57.
Sophomore Diana Hubbard led three Iona players in double figures with 12 points and also led the squad with seven rebounds. Seniors Anda Ivkovic and Marissa Flagg added ten points apiece while junior Kristina Ford had eight. Sarah Schoof posted a career-high four points.
For the Lumberjacks, Tyler Stephens-Jenkins led all players with 19 points. Northern Arizona led 43-37 on the boards but were outshot by Iona, 40.4% to 39.4%.
The Maroon & Gold opens Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference action with a 2:00 pm home contest against Siena today.
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