The 2021-22 New York University Women's Basketball Team made its regular-season debut on Saturday, November 6. Facing Kean University in Union, NJ, the Violets raced out to a 6-0 lead and never looked back in defeating the Cougars 89-58.

Playing for the first time since its NCAA Tournament appearance at the conclusion of the 2019-20 season, NYU showed no rust in posting the opening-day victory.  The Violets led 24-12 after the first quarter and 45-26 at halftime.

The third quarter was more competitive (17-17) before the Violets pulled away again in the fourth.

It was a mixture of experienced returners and newbies making their collegiate debuts who spearheaded the NYU victory.

Freshman Belle Pellecchia (Randolph, NJ/Rutgers Prepatory) scored a team-high 16 points, while sophomore Natalie Bruns (St. Louis, MO/Kirkwood) was right behind with 15 and a team-high 12 rebounds.

"The last time I was in an official uniform was with my high school team in March 2020, where we actually had our season cut short," Bruns explained. "Last year was tough, so I'm ready to get back out and play and I think I showed a little bit of that today."

Returning junior Jenny Walker (Sausalito, CA/Redwood) was next with 11 points. Sophomore Jordan Janowski (Woodcliff Lake, NJ/Saddle River Day School) scored 10 points in her collegiate debut, while returning juniors Erica Miller (Alamo, CA/Carondelet) and Annie Carlile (Mont Belvieu, TX/Barbers Hill) each added nine points. 

Janowski also contributed team highs of six assists and three steals.

"It is an unreal feeling being back on the court with my teammates," Walker said. "This time away has grown my appreciation for the game immensely."

NYU shot an impressive 84.4% (30-62) from the field, including 50% (8-16) from three-point range.

The Violets return to action next Saturday, November 13, when they play their home opener against Alvernia University. Game time at the Brooklyn Athletic Facility is set for 1:30pm.