Overview of the Team’s Transition

Following a strong campaign that saw Seton Hall’s women’s basketball team tie for third in the BIG EAST regular-season standings, Head Coach Anthony Bozzella is preparing for a season marked by considerable roster changes. Key players such as Zahara Bishop, Jordana Codio, Jada Eads, and Mariana Valenzuela have moved on, either due to graduation or through the transfer portal.

Despite the turnover, Bozzella is optimistic, citing a promising incoming class of freshmen alongside transfers from established power conferences, suggesting a potential for significant improvement and excitement for the upcoming season.

New Additions to the Roster

Samari Bankhead, Sophomore Guard

Samari Bankhead was the first addition to the team, announced on April 26. Last year at UCF, she played in all 30 games, averaging 3.6 points and 1.4 rebounds in 15.2 minutes per game. Two standout performances included scoring 13 points against Florida A&M and a season-high 16 points against No. 12 Baylor. At 6 feet tall, she offers both size and defensive skills in the backcourt.

Jada Crawshaw, Senior Forward

Jada Crawshaw, who joined from Georgia Tech in May, enriches the squad with her veteran presence and international experience. While averaging 7.2 points and 3 rebounds per game last season, she notably scored a season-high 16 points against Syracuse. Prior to Georgia Tech, Crawshaw excelled at Long Beach State and earned accolades in the NBL1 East in Australia, where she was named to the All-Australian Team.

Giselle Dollar, Freshman Guard

Giselle Dollar, a 5-foot-6 dynamo, arrives at SHU after being named MVP of the all-Metro 3A Metro League Mountain Division. With a notable defensive record averaging three steals per game, she was key to her high school team’s success, including a quarterfinal run in the state tournament. Dollar’s defensive tenacity aligns well with SHU’s strategy to force turnovers effectively.

Saniyah King, Junior Guard

The first transfer addition, Saniyah King, enhances the depth in the guard position. Hailing from Mississippi State, she played 26 games last season with averages of 2.5 points and 1.3 rebounds. Previously, King had a breakout season at Howard, where she was recognized as the MEAC Rookie of the Year after averaging 11.5 points and 4.5 assists in her freshman year.

Kenadie Maughan, Freshman Forward

Kenadie Maughan arrives from Uintah High School with a standout high school career, logging averages of 17.8 points, 13 rebounds, and 1.9 blocks in her final two years. Earning all-state honors, she set Uintah’s single-season scoring record and brings considerable rebounding potential to enhance SHU’s frontcourt.

Shamira Morton, Freshman Forward

Shamira Morton from Canton High School in Mississippi is another newcomer expected to significantly impact the team. With honors such as MHSAA Class 6A Miss Basketball, she averaged impressive stats, including 23.2 points and 13.7 rebounds per game. Her athleticism and impressive wingspan will contribute to the team’s defense and shot-blocking ability.

Inieye Oruh, Freshman Forward

Inieye Oruh joins Seton Hall after leading Centennial High School to a state championship and is recognized as a four-star recruit. Standing 6-foot-4, she demonstrated versatility on the court and is expected to pair effectively with other forwards, offering both height and athleticism.

Ksenija Scepanovic, Graduate Student Forward

Ksenija Scepanovic, a seasoned player from Montenegro, brings international experience to the Pirates. With significant achievements including two Montenegro Cup Championships, she offers a strong presence both in scoring and rebounding. Her efficiency and experience at the professional level will be crucial for SHU.

Ari Vidales, Freshman Guard

Ari Vidales, a 5-foot-10 combo guard from Monterrey, Mexico, is another new recruit. With extensive international experience representing Mexico at youth levels and a stint in the FIBA Women’s AmeriCup, she adds depth and versatility to the guard lineup, capable of playing multiple roles on the hardwood.

Conclusion

The integration of these transfers and freshmen into the roster promises to inject vitality into Seton Hall’s women’s basketball program. The adaptability of these newcomers to Coach Bozzella’s system could be pivotal in defining the team’s performance in the BIG EAST this season. With a blend of fresh talent and strategic insights, expectations are high for the Pirates as they embark on this new chapter.