Marlon Pitter
Connector Editor
The UMass Lowell women’s basketball team has exceeded expectations this year, winning four games in their new conference and competing hard against every opponent.
I had the chance to talk with River Hawks freshman Nicole Hayner, who’s averaging over 17 minutes of playing time and almost seven points per game.
Her role as a freshman is interesting, as she will have four years to compete at the Division I level, but an opportunity to learn from some of the upperclassmen as well. Check out what she had to say in the Q&A session below:
Q: In your opinion, how has your first Division I season turned out?
A: I think our first season in Division I has turned out better than most people expected. Some people didn’t even think we would win one game in our conference. I think we proved that we belong in America East by playing tough and competing with most of the teams in the conference.
Q: What did you expect from this season, individually and as a team? Did you meet those expectations?
A: Coming into this season, as a team, we knew it was going to be a struggle due to the transition from D2 to D1. Our goal was to take every game as a learning experience and use that to improve as a team. I definitely think we did that. We learned a lot this year and we have improved every single game. I think we are starting to prove to everyone in our conference that we can compete and that we belong. As a freshman, I expected to have many ups and downs this season while getting used to the style and pace of the college game. I have learned a lot this year as a player and I am looking forward to improving my game this summer.
Q: What was your favorite team moment this season?
A: Definitely our first win in the America East conference against UMBC. It was a great feeling to win after a tough first half of the season. I think it made us closer and stronger as a team and gave us the confidence we needed to continue to work hard.
Q: How do the coaches put you in the best position to win?
A: The coaches definitely make sure we are prepared for every game. They work hard putting together scouting reports and film so we know exactly what we need to do to win. We would not have improved so much this year as a team without them.
Q: How long do you think it’ll be before you’re keeping pace with the top teams in the America East conference?
A: I think we are already keeping up with the teams in America East this season. We have won four games in the conference and I don’t think anybody expected that many wins from us. I think next year, with all the experience and knowledge we have gained, we will be able to compete with all of the teams in the conference.
Q: What songs or artists do you listen to before games?
A: I listen to a lot of mellow acoustic stuff before games. I love Ed Sheeran, Passenger and Foy Vance.
Q: Who is your biggest fan?
A: My parents are definitely my biggest fans. They come to every single game, even the ones in Nebraska or Oklahoma.
Q: Who is the one person that has the most to do with why you are where you are right now?
A: I think my dad has had the most to do with why I am where I am right now. He coached me when I was little and I have learned so much about basketball from him over the years. I wouldn’t be the player I am today without him guiding me.
