Written by Katherine Clatterbuck
After excelling last season with a 10-3 overall standing and an ODAC championship appearance, the women’s basketball team began their 2021-22 season this past Monday at Averett University. Averett University is transitioning into the ODAC conference next season, so this game gave both teams the chance to size up their future rivals. Roanoke returns this season with the same starting line-up as last season. Headed into the game, Roanoke was led by their three team captains, Whitney Hopson, Kristina Harrell, and Renee Alquiza. All three seniors are looking forward to a year of success for the team as they chase an ODAC championship for their final season. Alison Nichols, Roanoke’s former assistant coach, left the team this summer to transition into the role of head coach for the University of Lynchburg Hornets, the team that defeated Roanoke in last year’s ODAC Championship game. Replacing Nichols is Aaron Fernandez, a North Carolinian with a background in women’s basketball. We look forward to seeing what Fernandez can add to the team this season.
Roanoke came out victorious against Averett, ending the game with a 28-point lead. Junior Morgan Micallef led the team in points, scoring 12 points to assist the team to their overall lead. Roanoke walked away with 46 of their 79 points from inside the paint, showcasing the talent of the Roanoke women to penetrate Averett’s defense. Looking towards their first tournament this weekend, Roanoke prepares to face Hood University on Saturday, November 13th at 6 PM and Albright University at 1 PM on Sunday, November 14th. The Cregger Center is allowing fans to attend in-person this season as COVID-19 numbers at Roanoke remain low. With this policy, Roanoke fans can fill the stands once again to see the talented dedication of this championship-headed team
