By Jami Sponaugle 

Chicago, Ill. - On November 3rd, the Northern Athletics Collegiate Conference (NACC) released the women’s basketball preseason poll. Illinois Tech was voted to finish in 13th with 73 points. Wisconsin Lutheran led the poll with 392 points and is the unanimous choice to win the 2022-23 season, receiving all 28 votes. 

Head coach Carissa Sain had the following to say about the upcoming season: “I am thrilled to start playing this week! It has been a fun few weeks being back in the gym with this team and watching them compete. Our returners have done a great job improving in the off season in so many ways.  They’re demonstrating a lot of maturity in their decision making and in how they lead.  Our returners have welcomed 3 wonderful first years who have really enhanced what these returners have established as a group and everyday they are more comfortable on the court.” Sain went on to say: “I don’t think I’m alone when I say that this team will be playing for their seniors - D, Cat, Chloe, Jess, and Sydney. They are a special group of young women who have had a wonderful impact on all of us.” Sain closed out her statement with: “I look forward to seeing how this group continues to come together and personify what team means.”

The Scarlet Hawks return 8 players, including 5 seniors and 3 sophomores. Julia Bucci led the Hawks in points per game last season, recording 16.2. Deriniece Moton followed with 11.6 points per game. Jessica Weaver picked up 6.9 rebounds per game to lead the Hawks last season. Bucci followed with 6.8  Joining the Hawks are 3 newcomers to complete the 2022-23 team. 

Illinois Tech begins the 2022-23 season on Tuesday, November 8th, when they head to Milwaukee, WI. to take on Mount Mary University at 7:00 p.m.