A new voice on the sidelines, a new system on the court, yet a familiar target on the horizon. Springfield College women’s basketball is entering a new chapter, but its ultimate goal remains unchanged: compete for a NEWMAC championship.
Following the retirement of longtime head coach Naomi Graves, the Pride enters the 2026-27 season under new leadership with first-year head coach Nicole Ambrose at the helm – bringing a fresh perspective to an already competitive atmosphere.
Springfield finished 16-11 last season, ending its postseason run in the NEWMAC semifinals with a 66-53 loss to Smith College. Now, the Pride looks to build on that experience and improve its standing in the conference.
Although the leadership on the sidelines has changed, much of the team’s foundation remains intact. The Pride return 14 of their 16 players from last season, giving Springfield a strong veteran presence as it takes on familiar matchups such as WPI, Salve Regina and Babson throughout the year. That experience could be one of the biggest advantages as the Pride works to find their rhythm under a new head coach.
Senior forward Natalie Lucas returns for her senior year, starting off the season strong as she was recognized by the NEWMAC on the Women’s Basketball Players to Watch in 2026-27 list.
“It’s basically a whole new system,” Lucas said. “We’ve all had to learn, ask lots of questions and talk things out with each other. There have been some frustrating days, but we know that coach has a goal, and we just have to trust her.”
Adjusting to a different style of play has required patience and communication. With the help of graduate assistant coaches Emma Kahn and Angie Czeremcha, who are returning for their second seasons, the team has spent the preseason preparing for the months ahead.
“We know how good these teams are, but we’re different this year,” Lucas said. “We’re running a different system, and we know that system better than anyone. We can play our best when we stick together.”
Springfield also welcomes two additions to the roster in graduate student Perry Blasetti and freshman guard Jenna Wresien. Blasetti already has a connection to the coaching staff, having played alongside Kahn at Western New England for three seasons.
Springfield will once again rely on key contributors such as Lucas, Madi Lopez and Carrie Hess for leadership and consistency. Capitalizing on this experience, the Pride hopes to improve on its previous record, compete for a NEWMAC championship and an appearance in the NCAA tournament.
“I’m excited to see this group’s continued growth and resilience over the course of the season,” Ambrose said. “They’ve adapted and adjusted as we figure this thing out together, and I’m proud of how they have fully embraced the change of a new coach and style of play.”
For some veteran seniors heading into their final collegiate campaign, this is one last opportunity to shape the next chapter of Springfield basketball and set the expectations for the players that will carry the program forward.
The first test comes Friday as the Pride officially kick off its season by hosting familiar foe Western New England, who handed them a 67-55 loss in their first game last year.
“The Posse is committed to giving our best effort day in and day out to reach our full potential, so that’s the goal every time we hit the court,” said Ambrose.