The Concordia Stingers women’s basketball team has been completely remodelled. Last summer Tenicha Gittens took over the head coaching reins and has been working hard to put together an aggressive, gritty, extremely competitive team.
The new era Stingers open the RSEQ season Saturday when they host the UQAM Citadins at Concordia gym on the Loyola campus. Tipoff is 6 p.m.
Gittens wants a winning attitude on the team this season and her first move was to bring in all-star Marie-Ève Martin, a hard-nosed guard who was with the McGill Martlets for three seasons.
Martin brought her leadership and her A-game to the Stingers. She set the pace last weekend when she made nine 3-point shots in a 63-62 victory over the Carleton Ravens.
“Marty brings a much needed championship mentality and work ethic to our Stinger program,” said Gittens of her star player. “Her maturity and leadership will be important in helping guide some of our younger players.”
There are only four returning players including 2014-15: first team all-star forward Marilyse Roy-Viau, point guard Tamara Pinard-Devos, forward Richelle Gregoire and shooting guard Aurelie d'Anjou Drouin.
In addition to Martin, basketball fans will want to keep an eye on newcomer Shanica Baker, a skilled forward who returns to Canada after three years at University of Tampa.
The Stingers rolled up a 5-1 win-loss record in the preseason that included a 70-63 victory over the five-time defending CIS champion Windsor Lancers.
