RED HAWKS RISE: MONTCLAIR WOMEN’S BASKETBALL READY TO SOAR AGAINST KEAN
THE PRESS CENTER | THE ROCKY REWIND | SPORTS
JANUARY 1, 2026 AT 9:09 PM
Montclair, NJ — The Montclair State University women’s basketball team is stepping onto the court with determination, resilience, and an unshakable belief in their strength as they prepare to face Kean University this Saturday afternoon. This is more than just a game—it’s a statement of perseverance, teamwork, and the unstoppable spirit of the Red Hawks.
Game Info
- Tip-off: Saturday, 3:00 p.m.
- Location: Hardwood Arena, Union, NJ
- Live Coverage: Watch every moment at monclairstateathletics.com
Last Time Out: Lessons Fueling the Comeback
Montclair battled hard in their NJAC Championship rematch against TCNJ on Wednesday, ultimately falling 84-51. But setbacks are not defeats—they are stepping stones to greatness. The Red Hawks showed flashes of brilliance, racing to a 7-2 lead behind Alyssa Craigwell’s early dominance. Celina Bussanich nailed a buzzer-beater three, and Bella Bruce sparked a fourth-quarter rally with nine points in just three minutes. These moments prove Montclair’s firepower is real, and now the team is channeling that energy into Saturday’s matchup.
Every challenge sharpens their edge. Every possession builds their resolve. The Red Hawks are ready to rise higher.
Team Leaders: Red Hawks Power Players
- Alyssa Craigwell – 17.1 PPG, 7.0 RPG, 38 steals (the heartbeat of Montclair’s offense and defense)
- Kristina Turner – .588 FG% (precision and consistency in every shot)
- Samantha Phillipp – .413 3PT% (deadly from deep, a constant threat)
- Alexis Strollo – .870 FT%, 43 assists (calm under pressure, the team’s playmaker)
- Bella Bruce – 19 blocks (defensive anchor, fearless protector of the paint)
These leaders embody grit, focus, and excellence. They remind us that Montclair’s strength lies not just in individual talent, but in collective determination.
Scouting Kean
Kean enters with a 2-10 overall record (2-6 NJAC), fresh off a 65-54 victory over Rutgers-Newark. While the Cougars fight hard, Montclair knows this is their moment to assert dominance. Kean was projected to finish eighth in the NJAC Preseason Poll, but Montclair is determined to prove why they are contenders at the top.
Series History
This rivalry runs deep—Saturday marks the 99th meeting between Montclair and Kean. The Red Hawks lead the series 59-39 and swept Kean last season. History favors Montclair, and momentum is theirs to seize.
Last Meeting
On February 15, 2025, Montclair triumphed over Kean with a commanding 80-60 victory. That win was not just about points—it was about confidence, teamwork, and belief.
SOURCE CREDIT: https://montclairathletics.com/news/2026
