The moment could not have been more picture perfect for Amanda Leary’s 1000th point.
On Senior Day, surrounded by her family and friends in Blake Arena, Leary secured the milestone in impressive fashion with a shot from beyond the arc putting her over the edge.
“It was a great experience,” Leary said. “It’s always been a goal of mine, but I kind of kept it in the back of my head. Having everyone here supporting me on Senior Day, I couldn’t ask for anything more.”
Leary scored 910 of her 1,000 points over the past three seasons. Entering this year, she knew the milestone was within reach if she continued to push herself on the court.
“Amanda epitomizes what collegiate athletes should be,” head coach Naomi Graves said. “She works hard, she’s committed to her teammates, she’s passionate. She never complains, never makes excuses, she just gets in and does her best.”
Graves said that standard is reflected in the entire senior class.
“I think what I love about them is these three have really bought into Springfield College women’s basketball, bought into us as a coaching staff,” Graves said. “They’re the hardest working group that we’ve had, and they really want to set the example of what a good teammate means.”
For Leary, it’s more than just a milestone. It is an impact she hopes to leave on the program that has meant so much to her over the past four years where the Springfield family has always been at the center.
“Being posse, being that sisterhood, always having each other’s backs no matter what.” Leary said.
Stefany Padula and Carrie Hess, along with manager Katie Blume were celebrated alongside Leary, with their families joining them to recognize their hard work over the course of the past few years.
The Pride went on to win in a dominant 70-41 victory over Wellesley College, extending their winning streak to four games. Springfield shot an impressive 51.9 percent from the field, with junior Natalie Lucas leading the team with 20 points.
Not only was it a special day for Leary, but Saturday’s matchup also marked the Pride’s annual Pink-Out for cancer day, as Graves was recognized for her previous battle with breast cancer.
In the final stretch of the regular season, the Pride head on the road to face MIT on Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 7 p.m.