Witness the Struggles and Triumphs of Yale Women's Basketball

First Encounter with Hofstra: A Close Battle with New Foes

On Tuesday, Nov. 12, the Yale women's basketball team (1–3, 0–0 Ivy) made their way to the David S. Mack Sports and Exhibition Complex in Hempstead, New York, to take on the Hofstra Pride (2–2, 0–0 CAA). This marked the first-ever matchup between the two teams. The game started with a neck-and-neck battle as Mackenzie Egger ’25 scored a two-pointer with the first jump ball. The Bulldogs and the Pride traded points back and forth, with six different players contributing in the first period. Yale led 14 - 11 going into the second quarter. However, the Hofstra Pride managed to steal the lead back and held on to it for the rest of the game.

Working to combat Hofstra's offense, the team had to adjust their defensive plan. "Our plan was to limit the rebounds and second chance opportunities for Hofstra," said Avery Lee ’25. "We also wanted to really execute our offense." Despite their efforts, the Bulldogs couldn't overcome the Pride's scoring.

Second Battle with Stony Brook: A Tight Contest with a Familiar Foe

On Friday, the Bulldogs returned home to John J. Lee Amphitheater to host the Stony Brook Seawolves (2–1, 0–0 CAA). This was a rematch of a tie that had developed over the past four years. The first period began with Grace Thybulle ’25 winning the jump ball and scoring the first points. The Bulldogs played with intensity, but Stony Brook fought back and took the lead. Halfway through the second period, Janay Brantley's offensive spree put the Seawolves in a strong position going into halftime, leading 22 - 33.

In the third period, Stony Brook established a 15 - point lead, and the Bulldogs struggled to keep up. "We have a very young team, and we are not equipped to handle adversity," said Head Coach Dalila Eshe. "Our team gets frazzled, and it's hard for them to settle back down into the game." The Bulldogs made some late attempts to come back, but it wasn't enough.

Preparing for Merrimack: Looking Ahead to the Next Challenge

Yale women's basketball now faces Merrimack (2–2, 0–0 MAA) on Tuesday, Nov. 19 at 7 p.m. at home. The team will need to draw on their experiences from the previous games and continue to grow and improve. "We have got to grow quickly because we have to rely on our freshman guards," said Coach Eshe.

Throughout the season, players like Grace Thybulle have shown their leadership and skill. Thybulle ended the game against Stony Brook leading her team in all categories with 13 points, 9 rebounds and 3 blocks. The bench also provided a boost, with players like Ke’iara Odume and Abigail Long contributing with their points and efforts.