EASTON, Mass. (Dec. 26, 2025) — Stonehill women’s basketball is stepping into uncharted territory, preparing for a Sunday matchup against No. 12/11 Vanderbilt – their first contest against a ranked opponent at the Division I level. This game isn’t just a challenge; it’s a crucial measuring stick for a program rapidly ascending in its transition to Division I athletics, and a test of the momentum built through recent individual accolades and team cohesion.
- First Ranked Test: Stonehill faces its toughest challenge yet against a nationally ranked Vanderbilt team.
- NEC Recognition: Brooke Paquette and Ella Pelletier’s recent double-double performances have earned them NEC Player and Rookie of the Week honors, respectively.
- Free Throw Prowess: The Skyhawks boast exceptional free throw shooting, ranking among the nation’s best, a skill that could prove vital in a close contest.
The Skyhawks (4-6) enter the game with a solid foundation built on strong individual performances and a clear upward trajectory. The recent double-double achievements of Brooke Paquette and Ella Pelletier, coupled with Reese Roggenburk’s earlier season double-double, signal a developing team depth and versatility. This is particularly noteworthy as Stonehill continues to establish itself within the Northeast Conference (NEC), where they were predicted to finish second in the preseason poll. The program’s recent success – including a WNIT appearance last season – demonstrates a commitment to competitive excellence during its transition period, which concludes with full NCAA Division I eligibility in 2026.
Vanderbilt (12-0) presents a significant hurdle. Their undefeated record speaks to a well-rounded and highly effective team. However, Stonehill’s strengths – particularly their ability to capitalize on free throws and their success when leading at halftime – could provide opportunities to stay competitive. The Skyhawks’ ability to limit opponents to under 60 points and under 40% shooting from the field, demonstrated in past seasons, will be key to containing Vanderbilt’s offense. The game also offers a valuable opportunity to gauge how Stonehill stacks up against the top teams in the country, providing invaluable experience for the remainder of their season.
The Forward Look
This game against Vanderbilt is less about the win-loss record and more about the lessons learned. Expect Coach Trisha Brown to use this contest as a benchmark for identifying areas for improvement as Stonehill prepares for NEC play. The team’s performance will likely influence recruiting strategies and future scheduling decisions. A competitive showing, even in defeat, could significantly boost the program’s profile and attract higher-caliber recruits. Following this game, all eyes will be on Stonehill’s NEC opener against New Haven on January 2nd, where they will look to translate the experience gained against Vanderbilt into conference victories. The success of players like Paquette, Pelletier, and Roggenburk will be pivotal in determining Stonehill’s ability to contend for an NEC championship and secure future postseason berths.
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