WBB: NDSU Opens Season Vs. 23/22 Creighton

BISON FINISHED 2ND IN THE SUMMIT LEAGUE LAST SEASON.

FARGO, N.D. (KVRR) — It is crazy to think basketball season is right around the corner, but it is. Monday, the North Dakota State Women’s basketball team opens their season and they look to build on their success of last year. NDSU finished last season winning its most games since the 2004-05 season with an 18-12 overall record. The Bison went on to make their first appearance in the Women’s National Invitation Tournament (WNIT) in program history.

Returning 6th-year guard Heaven Hamling finished last year 4th in the summit league in scoring and received 1st team all-conference honors. She enters this season as a preseason 1st-team selection. Hamling looks to build on her success from last year.

“For one, I think just to start off, is having fun,” said Hamling. “Obviously I’m six years [in]. It’s been a long time here, so I kind of know the ropes of things. Just bringing people with me and having fun this season is kind of how I’ve been approaching it.”

Head coach Jory Collins is excited for the start of the season that includes a ranked Creighton squad and two power-5 conference schools in the non-conference schedule. (Minnesota and Iowa State).

“We’re trying to get ready for summit league play,” said Collins. “We’re at a point in our program here where we’re building it; trying to challenge ourselves in the non-conference as much as possible. At the same time, we need to see some positive things and some growth happen to gain some confidence. It will be fun to let you know exactly where you’re at when you play those games and what you need to get better at. Hopefully that prepares us for league play.”

The Bison and Bluejays tip off Monday at 6 p.m. down in Sioux Falls, S.D. at the Sanford Pentagon.