ABINGTON, Pa. – The Penn State Abington women's basketball team is looking for its fourth consecutive NEAC tournament appearance, while gearing up for a new season.
 
Preseason Polls
Penn State Abington is expected to make another NEAC tournament this season after being ranked 5^th overall in the NEAC preseason poll released earlier today. Reigning NEAC Champion SUNY Poly was picked to repeat with eight first place votes.
 
Full Preseason Polls
 
Returners
Junior guard Shayna Rodriguez returns after earning NEAC Second Team All-Conference honors last year.  Rodriguez led the Nittany Lions in almost every category with 18.5 points per game, 9.3 rebounds per game, and 4.1 assists per game. This season she will be leading the team as a captain with senior Brittany Keyes. Keyes also played a major role in the 2016-17 season with 282 points and a .314 average from behind the arch.  The captains are joined by a strong returning core of Angie Tabares, Symantha Marrero and Alyssa O'Mara.
 
New Faces
Head coach Shayla Johnson brought in four talented freshman that have great size, chemistry and will add strong depth to the team.  Freshman Iman Richmond, Tola Oguntase, Iyanna Walls and Taylor Carter will be joined by senior transfer Grace Dewey who comes from NCAA Division I Delaware Blue Hens.
 
Matchups to Watch
Hype Night November 28, vs. College of Saint Elizabeth: The women will kick of their conference slate against improving team in the College of Saint Elizabeth.  That night the Penn State Abington Athletic Department will raise the Men's Soccer NEAC Championship banner to honor the team for its historic accomplishment.
 
January 10, vs. Bryn Athyn: The Nittany Lions will be looking for revenge against their cross-town rivals before they leave the conference. Bryn Athyn swept Abington in both games with a 95-87 win at home, and a 82-17 victory over the Nittany Lions in the Athletic Building.
 
Full Schedule: 2017-18 Women's Basketball
 
Coaches outlook
"We have a good group that works hard and not only loves the game, but loves playing together. We're excited for the season and what we can do in the conference."