
For the second consecutive year, the Penn State Shenango Women's Basketball team earned a berth in the USCAA National Tournament, continuing their rise as a formidable program on the national stage. The Lady Lions wrapped up their 2024–25 campaign with a pair of tough contests in Buffalo, falling to Christendom College and Cincinnati-Clermont in Games 2 and 3 of the tournament.
Shenango opened the tournament strong earlier in the week with a first-round victory, but Game 2 presented a significant challenge in the form of nationally-ranked Christendom College (24-2). Despite a competitive first half and a strong second-quarter effort, the Lady Lions ultimately fell 86-56. Shar'Da Williamson led the way with a double-double, recording 14 points and 11 rebounds. Jaysina Sellers added 17 points, including two three-pointers, and Hailee Aguinaga chipped in six points, eight rebounds, and three steals.
Christendom's dynamic scoring attack proved difficult to contain. Mary Pennefather posted 29 points and 10 rebounds, while Regina Bonvissuto hit six three-pointers en route to 20 points. The Crusaders also controlled the glass, out-rebounding Shenango 54-37 and dominating second-chance points 21-10. Despite the loss, Shenango's bench contributed 19 points, showing the team's depth and continued fight throughout the game.
The Lady Lions returned to the court less than 24 hours later for their final matchup of the season against Cincinnati-Clermont. Shenango battled hard but fell 81-58 in a physical, fast-paced game. Shar'Da Williamson once again delivered an outstanding performance, notching 26 points and grabbing 14 boards for her second double-double of the tournament. Hailee Aguinaga added another double-double of her own with 13 points and 11 rebounds, while Aneziah Fryer chipped in six points and five rebounds.
Although Shenango out-rebounded Clermont 47-44 and scored 18 second-chance points, turnovers and shooting woes proved costly. The Lady Lions committed 21 turnovers and shot just 31.1% from the field. Meanwhile, Clermont capitalized on their offensive opportunities, shooting nearly 50% as a team, led by Olivia Crawford's 30-point outburst and Tyra Murphy's 23 points and 13 rebounds.
While the final outcomes weren't what the team hoped for, this year's USCAA tournament marked another milestone in what has become a new era for Shenango Women's Basketball. The program's back-to-back national tournament appearances speak volumes about its growth and competitive spirit. With veteran leadership, young talent, and a strong culture of resilience, the Lady Lions continue to build something special.
As the 2024–25 season comes to a close, Penn State Shenango has plenty to be proud of—and plenty to look forward to. The experience gained on the national stage will no doubt fuel their offseason and strengthen their resolve for another run next year.
Congratulations to the Lady Lions on a strong season and their continued success at the USCAA level!