Lehigh Women’s Basketball: A Rising Force in the Patriot League and the Future of Mid-Major Hoops
The Lehigh Mountain Hawks (6-7, 2-0 Patriot League) are making waves, currently tied atop the Patriot League standings with Holy Cross (8-5, 2-0). Their upcoming Wednesday clash isn’t just a battle for early-season dominance; it’s a microcosm of a larger trend: the increasing competitiveness of mid-major women’s basketball programs and the growing importance of freshman talent.
The Lehigh Surge: Shooting Prowess and Rookie Brilliance
Lehigh’s recent 74-43 dismantling of Bucknell wasn’t a fluke. It was a continuation of a shooting performance that’s quickly becoming their hallmark. Shooting 49% from the field and 41% from three-point range demonstrates a consistent offensive threat. This efficiency isn’t just about luck; it’s a testament to smart shot selection and effective offensive schemes. According to NCAA data, teams shooting above 40% from three-point range win approximately 75% of their games – a statistic Lehigh is clearly aiming to capitalize on.
But the real story is Leia Edwards. The first-year phenom is already a force, earning her fourth Patriot League Rookie of the Week award. Her third double-double of the season (24 points, 10 rebounds against Bucknell) highlights a maturity and skill level rarely seen in freshmen. Edwards’ success isn’t isolated. Across the nation, freshman are playing increasingly significant roles, driven by earlier specialization in the sport and a more competitive youth basketball landscape. Consider Caitlin Clark at Iowa, who immediately impacted the Big Ten as a freshman – a precedent that’s inspiring a new generation of collegiate players.
Beyond Edwards: A Team Effort and the Rise of the All-Around Player
Lehigh isn’t a one-player show. Whitney Lind, Belle Bramer, and Lily Fandre all contributed double-digit scoring against Bucknell. Fandre, in particular, is on the cusp of a significant milestone – reaching 1,000 career points. This depth is crucial. Modern women’s basketball increasingly rewards teams with multiple scoring options and versatile players. The days of relying solely on a dominant post player are fading.
Fandre’s near-milestone also speaks to the increasing longevity of collegiate careers. The transfer portal has created more roster turnover, but players like Fandre demonstrate the value of consistent development within a program.
Holy Cross: A Formidable Opponent and the Patriot League’s Competitive Landscape
Holy Cross presents a significant challenge. Their 8-5 record and 2-0 Patriot League start demonstrate their own strength. Meg Cahalan’s scoring prowess (15.8 ppg) and Kaitlyn Flanagan’s playmaking (4.2 assists/game) make them a well-rounded team. The Patriot League, often overlooked, is becoming increasingly competitive. Programs like Lehigh and Holy Cross are investing in facilities, coaching, and recruiting, leading to a higher overall level of play. This trend mirrors what we’ve seen in other mid-major conferences like the Atlantic 10 and the West Coast Conference.
Lehigh’s past success against Holy Cross – sweeping the regular season series and winning in the Patriot League semifinals last year – provides a psychological edge, but past performance is no guarantee of future results.
Looking Ahead: What These Trends Mean for Women’s College Basketball
The rise of programs like Lehigh and the increasing impact of freshmen signal a shift in the landscape of women’s college basketball. We’re likely to see:
- Increased parity: Mid-major programs will continue to close the gap with power conference teams.
- Greater emphasis on player development: Coaches will prioritize identifying and nurturing talent at a younger age.
- More strategic recruiting: Programs will focus on finding versatile players who can contribute in multiple ways.
- Data-driven decision making: Teams will increasingly rely on analytics to optimize shooting efficiency and offensive schemes.
Did you know? The number of women participating in youth basketball has increased by over 20% in the last decade, contributing to a larger pool of talented players entering the collegiate ranks.
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the Lehigh vs. Holy Cross game?
A: The game will be streamed on ESPN+.
Q: What is Leia Edwards’ current scoring average?
A: As of January 6, 2024, Leia Edwards is averaging approximately 14.5 points per game.
Q: Has Lehigh ever won the Patriot League Tournament?
A: Yes, Lehigh won the Patriot League Tournament in 2010.
Q: What is the significance of Lily Fandre nearing 1,000 career points?
A: Reaching 1,000 career points is a significant achievement, placing her among the program’s all-time greats.
Pro Tip: Keep an eye on Lehigh’s three-point shooting percentage. When they’re hitting their shots, they’re incredibly difficult to beat.
Q: What’s next for Lehigh after the Holy Cross game?
A: Lehigh will host Colgate on Saturday, January 10th at 2 p.m.
Stay tuned for further coverage of Lehigh Women’s Basketball and the evolving dynamics of the Patriot League. Visit the official Lehigh Athletics website for more information and updates. Don’t forget to share your thoughts on Lehigh’s season in the comments below!
