Youngstown State Women’s Basketball Rides Momentum into WNIT Second Round
Youngstown State University’s women’s basketball team continues its impressive season, entering the second round of the Postseason WNIT against Maryland Eastern Shore on Tuesday. Following a bye in the first round, the Penguins will host the Hawks at the Zidian Family Arena, with tipoff set for 6:30 p.m. The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, 570 WKBN, and iHeartRadio.com.
A Season of Significant Improvement
This year marks a turning point for the Penguins, achieving a 24-9 record – tying for the second-highest win total in program history. This represents a remarkable 12-win improvement over the 2024-25 season, placing them among the top three teams nationally for win improvement. Head Coach Melissa Jackson has spearheaded this transformation in her second year, building a team focused on defense and balanced scoring.
WNIT History and Tournament Outlook
Youngstown State is making its fifth appearance in the WNIT, with this being its third time as an automatic qualifier. The Penguins aim for their first postseason tournament victory since 2016, and their second-ever WNIT victory since 2013. A win on Tuesday would propel them to the Super 16, potentially facing either Marshall or UMBC.
Key Players to Watch
The Penguins boast a well-rounded roster, with six players averaging between 7.4, and 12.1 points per game. Sixth-year point guard Casey Santoro leads the team in points and assists, while Sophia Gregory, the Horizon League Defensive Player of the Year, anchors the defense. Freshmen Sarah Baker and Danielle Cameron have also made significant contributions, showcasing the team’s promising future.
Game Day Experience
Fans attending Tuesday’s game can expect a lively atmosphere with several promotions. The first 150 YSU students will receive a t-shirt courtesy of Eagle Wear and enjoy free pizza from Fox’s Pizza Den. $2 Busch Light 12-ounce cans will be available for fans 21 and over, and two $250 gift card giveaways will add to the excitement.
Scouting Maryland Eastern Shore
Maryland Eastern Shore enters the game with a 20-14 record, having earned the automatic bid from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. The Hawks recently secured their first-ever victory over a Power Four conference opponent, defeating Wake Forest 59-48 in the first round of the WNIT. Ashanti Lynch leads the Hawks, having been named to the MEAC First Team and All-Defensive Team.
Series History
This will be the first-ever meeting between Youngstown State and Maryland Eastern Shore in women’s basketball. The Penguins have limited experience against teams from the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference, with their last contest against a MEAC opponent occurring in 2007.
Milestone Watch
- Sarah Baker is eight rebounds shy of 200 for her career and 22 points away from 400 this season.
- Sophia Gregory is nine steals away from 100 in her career.
- Paulina Hernandez is one block away from reaching 60 this season.
- Casey Santoro is one point away from scoring 400 this season.
FAQ
Q: Where can I watch the game?
A: The game will be broadcast on ESPN+, 570 WKBN, and iHeartRadio.com.
Q: How much are tickets for the game?
A: Tickets are available online at YSUsports.com or at the YSU Athletic Ticket Office.
Q: What promotions are happening at the game?
A: There will be a t-shirt giveaway for students, free pizza, discounted beer, and gift card giveaways.
Q: Has Youngstown State ever won a WNIT game?
A: Yes, the Penguins won their opening-round game in 2013 against Indiana State.
Did you understand? Youngstown State is one of only six teams in the country to have used the same starting lineup in every game this season.
Pro Tip: Arrive early to secure the best seats and take advantage of the student promotions!
Stay tuned to YSUsports.com for updates and further information on the Penguins’ WNIT journey. Explore more articles on the Youngstown State Athletics website.
