The University of Hartford women's basketball program, under the second-year head coach Polly Thomason, brings a host of youthful exuberance to the court in the program's first Division III season.

Hartford returns three players, but will likely also rely on the eight freshmen brought in for Thomason's first full recruiting class.

"This team is excited to wear the Hartford jersey and represent our university and alumni," said Thomason. "They are eager to learn and they work hard on the court and in the classroom to achieve their goals. This team is fun and full of personality. Every day I walk in the gym excited to work with them and build an elite program with them.

"It's difficult to predict what year two of the Polly Thomason era will look like," said Thomason. "Each season has its own set of challenges and surprises, and with so many new players on the team, the newness and inexperience will be an added layer to the equation. It's possible that this season could feel like a bit of a redo of season one, but each player brings their unique strengths and abilities to the team that could help elevate their performance. I am excited to watch the team grow, build chemistry, work towards their goals, and see how the season unfolds."

Sophomore Paige Loughman is the most experienced player on the team after playing 20 games with one start last season. She brings the ability to stretch the floor and can consistently catch and shoot from beyond the arc.

Junior Lenaijah Ferguson (12 games) and sophomore Siena Hallberg (13 games) have college playing experience that will be imperative to sustained success.

"The returners play a vital role in the growth and development of our young team," said Thomason. "Their experience and leadership are invaluable in guiding the newer players and helping them adapt to being a college student-athlete and building the team's culture."

Hartford's backcourt will feature some dynamic guards that will bring intensity to both ends of the court.

Freshman Adriana McCoy, a crafty ball handler, who has a great ability to get to paint and finish or find open teammates, could lead the team in both scoring and assists. As possibly the most competitive player on the court, she could be the straw that stirs the proverbial drink.

Her youthful backcourt mates – Taryn Blevin and Ella Marchesani – will bring additional floor spacing to the offense. Blevins is the more physical of the two, but both will be counted on to provide offensive versatility. Freshman Madison Baird could be the most versatile player on the team with the ability to play any of the five positions on both ends of the court.

Freshmen Megan Benner and Kristen Trembley will compete for minutes in the backcourt.

Inside, freshmen Sidnee Bowden and Jaida Cunningham will bring strength in the paint and on the boards. Bowden is a high-IQ basketball player with the ability to stretch the floor but is also a strong finisher through contact. Cunningham would be a force early on the glass in her time on the court. Freshman Kendall Rieman will find minutes on the wings and on the front court.

"We're going to put a team on the floor that works hard, never quits, and plays team basketball," said Thomason. "Our philosophy will always be to do your job to the best of your ability, play hard for one another, and have fun.  

"They are coachable and are like sponges during practices soaking up every bit of information they get," Thomason continued. "You don't typically see younger players with strong communication skills, but this group has done a great job of talking and working with each other during drills, using each other to figure out situations, or how to get better play to play. They're only missing college playing experience."

Hartford opens the 2023-24 season 3 p.m. Sunday, November 12, hosting Williams College.