The Campbell Lady Camels’ postseason run came to a halt in the second round of the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT), as they fell short in a highly anticipated matchup within the Colonial Athletic Association. After a remarkable regular season, Campbell had high hopes of making a deep run in the tournament, but ultimately, their aspirations were cut short. The Lady Camels’ early exit serves as a reminder that the WNIT is a proving ground for teams seeking to validate their strength and resilience in the face of stiff competition. As we dissect the details of Campbell’s second-round loss, we’ll examine what went wrong and what the team can learn from this experience as they look to regroup and recharge for the next season.
Jenkins’ Second Season
Sarah Jenkins, a former associate head coach at Delaware, has been named the fifth women’s basketball head coach in the program’s illustrious history on April 3, 2022 and concluded her second season with the Blue Hens this past 2023-24 campaign. In her second season at the helm, Jenkins’ 2023-24 squad finished the year with a second round appearance at the CAA tournament and saw freshman center Ande’a Cherisier walk away with a CAA All-Rookie nod.
For the second-straight year, the Blue Hens were on an offensive tear as the team ranked third in the league averaging 67.4 points, totaled 80-plus points in four difference contests and had nine 70-plus point performances during the campaign. The Blue Hens also led the conference in attendance, averaging 1,297.0 fans per game.
2019-20 Campaign
The 2022-23 season saw Jenkins lead the Blue Hens to a 16-14 overall record, 9-9 in CAA play and second round appearance in the conference tournament. Jenkins helped guide a spectacular season from third-team all-conference selection in Klarke Sconiers and having SAAC President Tara Cousin take home the league’s most prestigious honor, the Dean Ehlers Leadership Award.
Jenkins’ first year squad finished the tough non-conference schedule posting a 7-4 record, highlighted by capturing a B1G win over Illinois (Nov. 26), which marked the third time in three seasons that Delaware walked away with a win over a Power 5 school. The Blue Hens were an offensive threat as averaged 66.0 points, logged 80-plus points in three different contests and had seven 70-plus point performances this season.
CAA All-Rookie Nod
Ande’a Cherisier’s performance was impressive, with her stats and impact on the team earning her a CAA All-Rookie nod. Her 10.3 points and 5.5 rebounds per game were significant contributions to the team’s success.
Offensive Tear
The team’s offensive performance was marked by a scoring average of 67.4 points, which ranked third in the league. They also totaled 80-plus points in four different contests and had nine 70-plus point performances during the campaign.
Jenkins’ Coaching Career
Sarah Jenkins owns eight years of Division I coaching experience and most recently spent the past year serving as an assistant coach at Penn State. Jenkins is no stranger to the Blue Hen family as she spent four seasons on the coaching staff. She held the title of assistant coach and recruiting coordinator (2017-20) before being elevated to associate head coach and recruiting coordinator during the 2020-21 season.
During her tutelage, the Blue Hens were 71-50 overall and 46-26 in conference play. In her final year in Newark, Jenkins played an intricate role in guiding Delaware to one of its best seasons in nearly a decade in 2020-21. She helped guide the squad to a Colonial Athletic Association (CAA) regular-season title, WNIT Charlotte Region Championship, and a WNIT semifinals appearance; posting a 24-5 overall record, including a 16-2 mark in conference play to conclude the year.
Division I Coaching Experience
Jenkins’ eight years of Division I coaching experience include stints at Delaware, Penn State, and Georgetown. She has a strong track record of developing players and leading teams to successful seasons.
Jenkins’ First Year
Jenkins’ first year squad finished the tough non-conference schedule posting a 7-4 record, highlighted by capturing a B1G win over Illinois (Nov. 26), which marked the third time in three seasons that Delaware walked away with a win over a Power 5 school. The Blue Hens were an offensive threat as averaged 66.0 points, logged 80-plus points in three different contests and had seven 70-plus point performances this season.
Jenkins helped guide a spectacular season from third-team all-conference selection in Klarke Sconiers and having SAAC President Tara Cousin take home the league’s most prestigious honor, the Dean Ehlers Leadership Award. Jenkins’ coaching career has been marked by a strong emphasis on player development and team success.
Previous Coaching Experience
Before Delaware, Jenkins spent three seasons (2014-17) as an assistant coach at her alma mater, Georgetown. She helped guide the Hoyas to back-to-back WNIT appearances (2016-17) while developing a pair of All-BIG EAST selections, including BIG EAST Freshman of the Year Dorothy Adomako.
Jenkins spent more than eight years in the high school coaching ranks prior to her returning to Georgetown in 2014. She made stops at The Geneva School (Fla.) and Winter Park High School (Fla.) where she led her squads to a pair of district championships as well as two regional final appearances.
The Bowie, Md. native started her collegiate playing career at the University of Maryland but transferred to Georgetown where she played four years of basketball. As a student-athlete, Jenkins was a BIG EAST Academic All-Star and served as a two-year team captain. Jenkins graduated with bachelor’s degrees in English and Sociology in 2005.
Coaching Career
Michelle Baker recently finished her eighth season with the Drexel coaching staff and her sixth year as an assistant coach in 2019-20. Baker, who graduated from Saint Joseph’s in the spring of 2012, served as an operations assistant for her first two seasons and helped mentor the Dragons team that won the 2013 WNIT Championship while pursuing her masters at the University.
As an operations assistant, Baker was responsible for day-to-day operations within the women’s basketball team, travel and meal plan coordination as well as practice organization and women’s basketball staff office management. Baker also facilitated team and staff interaction with the community, and continues to maintain the women’s basketball team’s social media presence.
Baker spent a stellar four-year career at Saint Joseph’s, finishing as the program’s all-time leader for games played (127) and 14th in points (1,184). As a senior, Baker was named a Second Team All-Atlantic 10 selection when she led the team with 13.0 points per game. She was also recognized as an All-Big Five performer as she led the Hawks to their third-straight postseason appearance and a second-round appearance in the WNIT.
Baker was named the Hawks’ Team MVP as a junior and senior, earning A-10 All-Defensive honors during her junior campaign. Denise King is entering her fifth season as an assistant coach at Hofstra in 2017-18. The Pride returned to the CAA Quarterfinals and Ashunae Durant was named All-CAA Second Team in 2016-17.
Hofstra recorded its second straight 20-win season in 2015-16, with King helping lead Hofstra to a 25-9 record, including a 14-1 mark at home. The team earned a berth in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) for the fifth time in program history and the second consecutive year. The Pride advanced through the first three rounds of the WNIT before falling in the quarterfinals.
Playing Career
As a player, the Catonsville, Maryland, native was one of only 18 players to reach the 1,000-point milestone with the Rams and is 15th on the program’s all-time scoring list with 1,023 points. She is also fourth in Rhode Island history with 118 three-pointers as well as fourth in free throw percentage (.772, 224-290), fourth in assists (339) and ninth in 3-point percentage (.312, 118-378).
Development of Players
Sarah Jenkins, the head coach of the Delaware Blue Hens, has demonstrated a remarkable ability to develop players, transforming her team into a formidable force in the Colonial Athletic Association (CAA). Jenkins’ coaching philosophy and her hands-on approach have been instrumental in the growth and success of several key players, including Klarke Sconiers, Tara Cousin, and Jasmine Dickey.
Klarke Sconiers
Klarke Sconiers, a third-team all-conference selection, has blossomed under Jenkins’ guidance. Sconiers has shown significant improvement in her shooting accuracy and overall game awareness. Jenkins’ focus on individual skill development and strategic game planning has helped Sconiers become a reliable scorer and defender for the Blue Hens. Sconiers’ performance has been a testament to Jenkins’ ability to nurture talent and bring out the best in her players.
Tara Cousin
Tara Cousin, the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) President, has also reaped the benefits of Jenkins’ coaching. Cousin was honored with the Dean Ehlers Leadership Award, the CAA’s most prestigious honor, reflecting her leadership and dedication both on and off the court. Jenkins’ emphasis on leadership and team dynamics has clearly played a role in Cousin’s development, making her a key figure in the team’s success.
Jasmine Dickey
Jasmine Dickey, a standout player, had a spectacular season under Jenkins’ coaching. Dickey was named the CAA Player of the Year, first-team all-conference, all-defensive team, and all-tournament team member. Jenkins’ strategic approach to developing Dickey’s offensive and defensive skills led to Dickey becoming the sixth player in program history to earn player of the year honors. Jenkins’ focus on developing Dickey’s overall game, including her offensive rebounds, contributed to the team’s success, making them the NCAA Division I statistical champions in offensive rebounds per game (20.3).
CAA Tournament Appearances
Sarah Jenkins’ tenure at Delaware has been marked by notable CAA tournament appearances, showcasing her ability to lead her team to competitive success. The 2020-21 season was particularly standout, as the Blue Hens secured the CAA regular-season title and advanced to the WNIT semifinals. This achievement underscores Jenkins’ strategic acumen and her ability to motivate her team to perform at their highest level.
2020-21 Season
The 2020-21 season was a breakthrough year for the Blue Hens under Jenkins. The team finished with a 24-5 overall record, including a 16-2 mark in conference play. Jenkins’ leadership helped the squad win the CAA regular-season title and advance to the WNIT Charlotte Region Championship, culminating in a semifinals appearance. The team’s success was driven by a balanced offensive approach and strong defensive play, highlighting Jenkins’ strategic planning and player development.
The team’s offensive prowess was evident, as they averaged 67.4 points per game and had multiple high-scoring performances, including four games with 80 or more points. The Blue Hens also led the conference in attendance, averaging 1,297 fans per game, showcasing their popularity and the community’s support. This season’s success was built on a foundation of Jenkins’ eight years of Division I coaching experience, her previous role as an assistant coach at Penn State, and her deep connection with the Blue Hen family.
CAA Coaches
Michelle Baker
Michelle Baker, an assistant coach at Drexel, has made significant contributions to the program’s success. Baker graduated from Saint Joseph’s in 2012 and has been a key member of the Drexel coaching staff since 2014. Her experience includes serving as an operations assistant and helping mentor the Dragons team that won the 2013 WNIT Championship. Baker’s responsibilities have included day-to-day operations, travel coordination, and community interaction, showcasing her versatility and dedication.
During her playing career at Saint Joseph’s, Baker was a standout performer, finishing as the program’s all-time leader for games played (127) and 14th in points (1,184). Her senior year was particularly impressive, as she was named a Second Team All-Atlantic 10 selection and led the team with 13.0 points per game. Baker’s leadership and defensive skills were recognized with All-Big Five honors and a Second Team All-Atlantic 10 selection. Her contributions to the team’s success and her ongoing support of the program’s social media presence highlight her commitment to the sport and her community.
Denise King
Denise King, entering her fifth season as an assistant coach at Hofstra, has a proven track record of success. King has been instrumental in Hofstra’s recent achievements, including a CAA Quarterfinals appearance and multiple All-CAA selections. King’s strategic approach and focus on player development have contributed to the Pride’s competitive edge.
King’s coaching career includes notable successes at Mount St. Mary’s, where she served as an assistant coach and lead recruiting coordinator. Her efforts helped the Mount earn their first appearance in the Northeast Conference semifinals since the 2000-01 season. King’s focus on player development and community involvement has been a hallmark of her coaching style.
As a player at Rhode Island, King was a standout performer, finishing her career with 1,023 points and 339 assists. Her leadership and scoring ability were recognized with multiple All-Atlantic 10 and All-Defensive team selections. King’s playing experience and coaching acumen make her a valuable addition to any team, and her contributions to Hofstra’s success are evident in their recent tournament appearances and all-conference selections.
Implications and Analysis
CAA Standings
The CAA standings reflect the competitive nature of the conference and the impact of Jenkins’ coaching. The Blue Hens’ performance in the CAA is a testament to Jenkins’ strategic planning and her ability to develop her team. The 2022-23 season saw the Blue Hens finish with a 16-14 overall record and a 9-9 conference record, securing a second-round appearance in the conference tournament. The team’s offensive prowess, averaging 66.0 points per game and logging multiple 80-plus point performances, highlights their competitive edge.
The Blue Hens’ success is further underscored by their attendance numbers, averaging 1,297 fans per game, showcasing the community’s support and the team’s popularity. This season’s performance builds on Jenkins’ previous successes, including a 7-4 non-conference record and a significant win over Illinois, marking the third time in three seasons that Delaware has defeated a Power 5 school.
WNIT Performance
The Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) is a key indicator of a team’s competitive prowess, and Jenkins’ teams have made significant strides in this tournament. The 2020-21 season saw the Blue Hens advance to the WNIT semifinals, a testament to Jenkins’ strategic planning and player development. The team’s success in the WNIT is a reflection of their strong offensive and defensive play, as well as their ability to perform under pressure.
The 2023-24 season saw the Blue Hens reach the second round of the CAA tournament, highlighting their continued competitiveness and Jenkins’ ability to guide her team to success. The team’s performance in the WNIT, including their wins and losses, reflects their ongoing development and their potential for future success.
Future Outlook
The future looks promising for the Delaware Blue Hens under Sarah Jenkins’ leadership. The team’s performances in the CAA and the WNIT, along with the development of key players, position them well for the upcoming season. The Blue Hens’ offensive prowess, community support, and Jenkins’ strategic planning are all indicators of their potential for tournament success.
The addition of freshman center Ande’a Cherisier, who was named a CAA All-Rookie, highlights the team’s ongoing development and their potential for future success. The Blue Hens’ ability to attract and develop talent, along with Jenkins’ coaching acumen, positions them as a formidable force in the CAA.
The Blue Hens’ future outlook is further bolstered by their competitive edge and their community support. The team’s ability to perform under pressure and their strong offensive and defensive play are indicators of their potential for tournament success. As the Blue Hens look ahead to the upcoming season, their prospects are promising, and their potential for future success is evident.
The Blue Hens’ future success will be built on Jenkins’ strategic planning, her ability to develop players, and her commitment to the sport. The team’s ongoing development and their competitive edge position them well for the upcoming season and for future tournament success. The Blue Hens’ potential for success is evident, and their future looks bright under Jenkins’ leadership.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the Campbell Fighting Camels’ impressive performance in the WNIT has left a lasting impression on the college basketball community. Our article highlighted the team’s remarkable comeback in the second round of the tournament, demonstrating their resilience and determination. The Colonial Athletic Association’s (CAA) representation in the WNIT showcased the conference’s depth and talent, solidifying its reputation as a force to be reckoned with. Furthermore, the article underscored the significance of the CAA’s involvement in the tournament, providing a platform for its member schools to compete against top-notch opponents.
The implications of the Campbell Fighting Camels’ success extend beyond the confines of the WNIT. The team’s performance serves as a testament to the growing influence of women’s basketball, challenging traditional perceptions and expectations. As the sport continues to gain momentum, it is likely that we will see increased participation and competition from colleges and universities across the country. The CAA’s continued presence in the WNIT will undoubtedly play a significant role in shaping the future of women’s college basketball, providing a springboard for aspiring athletes and teams to realize their potential.
As the curtain falls on this season’s WNIT, the Campbell Fighting Camels’ remarkable run serves as a poignant reminder of the power of determination and hard work. As the college basketball community looks ahead to next season, one thing is clear: the CAA will be a team to watch, and the women’s game will only continue to thrive, driven by the passion and dedication of teams like Campbell.