Fordham University has a rich tradition in women’s basketball, boasting numerous standout players who have significantly contributed to the team’s success over the years. Each of these athletes brought unique skills and qualities to the court, enhancing Fordham’s reputation as a competitive force in collegiate basketball. This article delves into some of the best Fordham women’s basketball players in recent history, highlighting their remarkable achievements and the lasting impact they’ve had on the program.
Emily Tapio: A Versatile Forward
A Key Player from 2011 to 2015
Emily Tapio played a crucial role for Fordham from 2011 to 2015. Her adaptability on the court allowed her to excel in both forward and guard positions, making her an invaluable player for the Rams. Tapio’s ability to seamlessly transition between roles demonstrated her basketball intelligence and versatility. This skill set not only made her a key player during her years at Fordham but also inspired her teammates to adapt and perform at their best.
Defensive Prowess and Efficient Scoring
Tapio was particularly recognized for her defensive skills. Her ability to read the game and anticipate opponents’ moves was second to none. On the offensive end, Tapio’s efficient scoring, particularly her knack for converting difficult shots, made her a consistent threat. Her scoring ability was complemented by her understanding of defensive schemes, allowing her to make critical stops when needed.
Leadership and Championship Success
Emily Tapio’s leadership was instrumental in guiding the Rams to an Atlantic 10 Championship in 2014. Her determination and dedication to the game were evident in her relentless pursuit of excellence. Tapio’s leadership extended beyond the court, as she often mentored younger players and set a standard of excellence for the team. Her contributions during her tenure left a lasting impact on the Fordham basketball program.
Abigail Corning: The All-Around Leader
Pivotal Figure in Fordham’s History
Abigail Corning, a guard for the Rams from 2010 to 2014, was a pivotal figure in the history of Fordham women’s basketball. Known for her exceptional court vision, Corning had a unique ability to see plays develop before they happened. This foresight allowed her to make smart decisions, setting up her teammates for success and contributing to the team’s overall effectiveness on the court.
Leadership and Court Vision
Corning’s leadership was critical to Fordham’s success during her time with the team. Her ability to lead by example and communicate effectively with her teammates helped build a cohesive unit. Corning’s court vision was unparalleled, enabling her to orchestrate the offense and find open teammates with precision. Her ability to read the game and make quick decisions set her apart as a true playmaker.
Contributions Beyond Scoring
While Corning was undoubtedly a skilled scorer, her contributions extended far beyond putting points on the board. She was a tenacious defender, often tasked with guarding the opponent’s best player. Her rebounding ability also made her a valuable asset, providing Fordham with additional possessions and opportunities to score. Corning’s all-around skills solidified her place among Fordham’s best.
Kaitlyn Downey: The Rising Star
Recent Star of Fordham Basketball
Kaitlyn Downey has emerged as one of the more recent stars of Fordham women’s basketball. Her presence on the court is undeniable, with her impressive shooting ability and strong presence in the post making her a consistent performer. Downey’s impact has been felt on both ends of the floor, as her ability to contribute in multiple areas has been instrumental in the team’s success.
Shooting Ability and Floor Stretching
Downey’s shooting ability is one of her standout attributes. Her capacity to stretch the floor with her range forces defenses to account for her presence, opening up opportunities for her teammates. This ability to shoot from distance makes her a versatile threat and a key component of Fordham’s offensive strategy. Downey’s shooting prowess has become a hallmark of her game.
Dominance in the Post and Bright Future
In addition to her shooting, Downey’s strength in the post makes her a formidable opponent. Her ability to dominate the boards and score inside provides Fordham with a balanced attack. Downey’s growth as a player signifies a bright future for both her and the Fordham basketball program. Her ongoing development and contributions ensure that she will continue to be a vital part of the team’s success.
Kendell Heremaia: The Dynamic Guard
Standout Guard with Dynamic Playstyle
Kendell Heremaia has established herself as a standout guard for Fordham, known for her dynamic and electrifying playstyle. Her agility and quickness make her a challenging matchup for any defense. Heremaia’s ability to navigate through defenses with ease and precision is a testament to her skill and dedication to her craft.
Consistent Scorer and Playmaker
Heremaia’s scoring ability is complemented by her playmaking skills. She consistently leads the team in points and assists, showcasing her dual-threat capability. Heremaia’s scoring is often the catalyst for Fordham’s offense, sparking runs and energizing the team. Her ability to create plays for others is equally important, as she keeps defenses guessing and her teammates involved.
Leadership on and off the Court
Beyond her on-court contributions, Heremaia is also a vocal leader for the Rams. Her communication and leadership skills are vital to the team’s cohesion and success. Heremaia’s presence on the floor instills confidence in her teammates, as they look to her for guidance in crucial moments. Her leadership extends beyond basketball, as she sets an example through her work ethic and dedication.
Anna DeWolfe: The Scoring Sensation
Making a Name as a Top Scorer
Anna DeWolfe has quickly risen to prominence as one of Fordham’s top scorers. Her ability to put the ball in the basket from anywhere on the court makes her a constant threat to opposing defenses. DeWolfe’s scoring prowess is a testament to her work ethic and dedication to honing her craft, as she continues to develop into a premier scorer.
Quick Release and Shooting Accuracy
DeWolfe’s quick release and shooting accuracy are defining traits of her game. Her ability to get shots off quickly, even under pressure, sets her apart from many of her peers. This shooting ability has earned her numerous accolades and recognition as one of the best players in the conference. DeWolfe’s shooting touch is a crucial component of Fordham’s offensive strategy.
Complemented by Work Ethic and Dedication
Beyond her scoring ability, DeWolfe’s strong work ethic and dedication to the game are evident. She is constantly striving to improve and refine her skills, setting an example for her teammates. DeWolfe’s commitment to excellence is reflected in her performance on the court, as she continues to be a driving force for Fordham women’s basketball.
Hannah Missry: The Three-Point Specialist
Exceptional Three-Point Shooting
Hannah Missry, who played from 2013 to 2017, was renowned for her exceptional three-point shooting ability. Her proficiency from beyond the arc made her a crucial weapon in Fordham’s offensive arsenal. Missry’s ability to stretch defenses with her shooting opened up the floor for her teammates, creating opportunities for the Rams’ offense to thrive.
Opening the Floor for Teammates
Missry’s shooting not only contributed directly to Fordham’s scoring but also had a significant impact on the team’s overall offensive strategy. Her presence on the perimeter forced defenses to extend, creating driving lanes and open looks for her teammates. Missry’s ability to knock down shots from long range was a key component of Fordham’s offensive success during her tenure.
Vital Contributions to Offensive Schemes
Her contributions went beyond just shooting; Missry’s understanding of offensive schemes allowed her to be in the right place at the right time. Her ability to move without the ball and find open spaces was critical in maintaining Fordham’s offensive flow. Missry’s contributions were vital to the team’s success and helped elevate Fordham’s offensive game during her time with the team.
G’mrice Davis: The Dominant Rebounder
Unmatched Rebounding Ability
G’mrice Davis was a force on the boards for Fordham from 2014 to 2018. Her rebounding ability was unmatched, as she consistently led the team in rebounds per game. Davis’s physical presence and tenacity made her a dominant force in the paint, securing possessions and giving Fordham a significant advantage in the rebounding battle.
Physicality and Control of the Paint
Davis’s physicality and determination allowed her to control the paint on both ends of the court. Her ability to battle for rebounds and establish her position was crucial in limiting opponents’ second-chance opportunities. Davis’s presence in the paint was a stabilizing force for Fordham, providing the team with a reliable source of rebounding and interior defense.
Invaluable Asset to the Team
Davis’s efforts on the glass provided Fordham with numerous second-chance opportunities, making her an invaluable asset to the team. Her impact extended beyond statistics, as her presence and work ethic inspired her teammates to elevate their play. Davis’s contributions were instrumental in Fordham’s success and left a lasting legacy of excellence in rebounding.
Mary Goulding: The Defensive Anchor
Defensive Stalwart for Fordham
Mary Goulding was a defensive stalwart for Fordham, known for her ability to guard multiple positions effectively. Her defensive intensity and hustle were key components of Fordham’s success during her tenure. Goulding’s ability to disrupt opposing offenses with her defensive prowess made her a standout player and a critical component of the team’s strategy.
Intensity and Hustle
Goulding’s intensity and hustle were evident every time she stepped onto the court. Her commitment to defense was unwavering, as she consistently put pressure on opponents and forced turnovers. Goulding’s ability to anticipate plays and make crucial stops in critical moments made her a fan favorite and a respected leader on the team.
Critical Plays and Leadership
Goulding’s knack for making critical plays in crucial moments set her apart as a leader on the team. Her ability to rise to the occasion and deliver when it mattered most was invaluable to Fordham’s success. Goulding’s leadership extended beyond her defensive contributions, as she inspired her teammates with her work ethic and determination.
Erin Rooney: The Playmaking Point Guard
Standout Point Guard from 2012 to 2014
Erin Rooney, who played from 2012 to 2014, was a standout point guard for Fordham. Her playmaking ability and court vision made her the engine of the Rams’ offense. Rooney’s leadership and basketball IQ were evident in her ability to control the tempo of the game and make smart decisions with the ball. Her contributions were instrumental in Fordham’s success during her time with the team.
Playmaking Ability and Court Vision
Rooney’s playmaking ability was second to none, as she consistently set up her teammates for success with her precise passing and court awareness. Her vision on the court allowed her to see plays develop and make quick, accurate decisions. Rooney’s ability to control the flow of the game and dictate the pace was a key factor in Fordham’s offensive success.
Leadership and Basketball IQ
Rooney’s leadership was evident in her ability to inspire and guide her teammates. Her basketball IQ allowed her to make smart decisions and execute plays effectively, maximizing Fordham’s offensive potential. Rooney’s contributions extended beyond her playmaking, as she instilled a sense of confidence and cohesion within the team.
Bre Cavanaugh: The Scoring Leader
Prolific Scorer in Recent History
Bre Cavanaugh has been one of Fordham’s most prolific scorers in recent history. Her scoring ability and offensive versatility have made her a standout player for the Rams. Cavanaugh’s ability to score in various ways, from driving to the basket to shooting from long range, has kept defenses on their toes and made her a constant threat.
Offensive Versatility and Scoring Acumen
Cavanaugh’s offensive versatility is one of her greatest strengths. Her ability to adapt her scoring approach based on the defense’s strategy makes her a difficult player to contain. Cavanaugh’s scoring acumen is complemented by her ability to read defenses and exploit their weaknesses, making her a key component of Fordham’s offensive success.
Leadership and Impact on Success
Cavanaugh’s leadership and impact on Fordham’s success extend beyond her scoring ability. Her presence on the court and her ability to lead by example have been crucial to the team’s cohesion and performance. Cavanaugh’s dedication to the game and her drive to succeed have left a lasting impression on Fordham women’s basketball.
Samantha Clark: The Reliable Center
Reliable Presence in the Paint from 2012 to 2016
Samantha Clark, who played from 2012 to 2016, was a reliable presence in the paint for Fordham. Her ability to score in the post and protect the rim made her a key player for the Rams. Clark’s consistency and work ethic were evident in her performance on both ends of the court, making her an integral part of the team’s success.
Scoring in the Post and Rim Protection
Clark’s ability to score in the post provided Fordham with a steady source of points in the paint. Her post moves and footwork allowed her to score efficiently against opponents. Defensively, Clark’s rim protection was vital, as she deterred opponents from attacking the basket and altered shots with her presence.
Consistency and Work Ethic
Clark’s consistency and work ethic were hallmarks of her game. Her commitment to improving her skills and contributing to the team’s success was unwavering. Clark’s contributions as a center helped solidify Fordham’s frontcourt during her tenure, and her reliable presence was a cornerstone of the team’s strategy.
Conclusion
Fordham women’s basketball has been fortunate to have a wealth of talented players who have contributed to the program’s success. From scoring leaders to defensive anchors, these athletes have left a lasting impact on Fordham’s basketball legacy. Their dedication, skill, and leadership continue to inspire future generations of Rams players.
As the program continues to grow, these standout players serve as a testament to the strength and resilience of Fordham women’s basketball. Their stories of determination and achievement are a source of pride for the university and its supporters. The legacy of these remarkable athletes will continue to inspire and motivate future Fordham players to reach new heights in the world of women’s basketball.
