SEASON PREVIEW: New-look UPEI Women’s Basketball Panthers ready to prove themselves

By Thomas Becker

While much has changed regarding roster construction, the UPEI Women's Basketball Panthers want to prove that they can still be among the AUS elite in 2022–23. 

The Panthers lost graduates Jenna Mae Ellsworth, Reese Baxendale, and Carolina Del Santo, who all contributed significantly to the program. Now it's up to the next wave of Panthers, like Lauren Rainford and Alicia Bowering, to leave their own mark.  

Head coach Matt Gamblin believes the current group learned a lot from those former players and their shared experiences.  

"It's not so much a fresh start as it is a continuation," Gamblin explained. "A good part of that group was at nationals last year and they gained valuable experience. And I think those players are ready to take on more prominent roles." 

Rainford proved she could be that player last season when she emerged as an all-star. Gamblin hopes she can take that next step and reach all-Canadian status. 

"There's no secret to becoming good. It's just time in the gym and experience," he said. "With Lauren having had the experience with and role model in Jenna Mae at the start of her career, it's been great for her development."  

If Rainford can get there, then the Panthers have enough talent around her to continue the team's winning tradition they've enjoyed in recent years.

"We're a completely different team than we were three years ago and our road to a championship isn't going to be easy," Rainford said. "But I think everyone is on the same page in terms of the preparation and level of commitment. We're just taking it one game at a time and not looking past any opponents, while still keeping the big picture of a championship in our minds." 

Also looking to take that next step is Bowering, a sharpshooting three-point specialist who is primed for a big year. She'll lead a promising young group of guards eager to prove themselves, including Devon and Sydney Lawlor, Grace Lancaster, and Sydney Cummins.  

"We have a great team dynamic this year with a mix of experienced veterans and younger players with everyone being able to step up and contribute," Bowering said. "We are a hardworking group that likes to compete and get better each day."  

At forward, the Panthers are equipped with experienced veterans, including Karla Yepez, who returns after a year on the coaching staff, and Rainford's older sister Aiden, who brings NCAA and national experience to the squad. Sophomore Elise Plaschka, although the youngest of the bunch, will no doubt get more playing time this season. 

Offensively, UPEI is in good shape. The question is whether they can defend at the level they are accustomed to. In the last three years, the Panthers allowed the fewest points per game as Gamblin continues to uphold a defence-first philosophy.  

"I'm confident that if we defend, we have a chance to get to where we want to go," Gamblin said. "You have to care. If your person scores on you, that has to hurt a little bit." 

As the anticipation grows for the new season, the players are ready to give it their all.  

"I think we're all excited to get the season started and showcase all the hard work and effort we put in," Lauren said. "This year, we're focused on the growth and development of our team and want to continue to get better as we take on the regular season."