The College of Staten Island Women’s Basketball team is set to tip off the 2025-26 campaign when they host the Conference Challenge Tournament on November 15–16, where they’ll face Franklin Pierce University and Saint Michael’s College. Building off the momentum of their most successful season in the Division II era, the Dolphins aim to not only make their fourth consecutive appearance in the East Coast Conference (ECC) postseason, but also to return to the championship stage.
CSI is bringing back three veterans from last year’s squad, including senior standouts Dana Phelan and Kyra Rose, who will anchor a team infused with new talent, with seven incoming freshmen and two transfers. The Dolphins’ upward trajectory is reflected in the 2025-26 ECC Preseason Coaches’ Poll, where they are ranked third out of nine teams, a notable improvement from the previous year. In 2024-25, the Dolphins finished with a 21-9 overall record and a 13-3 mark in ECC play, marking a new high point since joining Division II. After an overtime victory over Mercy in the postseason semifinals, CSI advanced to its first-ever ECC Championship appearance, ultimately falling 76-68 to top-seeded Daemen College despite a strong three-quarter effort.
Head Coach Nicole Sarcone enters her eighth season at the helm, leading a seasoned and refreshed coaching staff that includes returning assistants Kelsey Carey, and John Hannafin, along with new additions Allie McGinn and Kayla Ferris.
Check out the Women’s Basketball Interactive Season Preview for more information and to get you ready for the 2025-26 season.
– Story courtesy of CSI Athletics
