Simmons Basketball is prepared for the 2010-11 season after finishing 2009-10 with an overall record of 17-9 (8-4 GNAC) and a trip to the conference semi-finals for only the second time in the history of the program. The Sharks were ranked nationally in a few categories: 11th in field goal defense, 23rd in free throw percentage (74%), 8th in 3-point field goal percentage defense and 31st in 3-point field goals per game.

Simmons will look to compete in the Great Northeast Athletics Conference playoffs once more in 2011, and in doing so will have to find a way to fill the void left by the graduation of a talented trio of seniors—Stephanie Fox, Julianna Eagles, and Aubree Giarrosso.

Leading the way for this year's team will be senior captain Liane Lantagne (Haverhill, Mass.) who had begun to come into her own last year until felled by a season-ending injury. Also returning are junior captain Jessica Thomas (Sandwich, Mass.) who had a break out season last year behind the arc, including two games with six three pointers. Junior forward Alex Acloque (Randolph, Mass.) will be a key contributor and solid defender, and will also be counted on to provide experience and depth in the post.

Junior guard Brittany Dolloff (Hollis, N.H.) will be counted on to provide leadership at the point guard position and pressure defense. Sophomore guard Liz O'Connor (Milton, Mass.) is expected to continue her stellar play as one of up and coming guards in the conference and defensive stopper, holding many of the top guards well below their scoring average. Sophomore center Emily Thomas (Cheshire, Conn.) will see her role increase this year after finishing strong last season as one of the top field goal percentage shooters in the conference.

Rounding out the team are newcomers Leah Davis (Cranston, R.I.), Hannah May (Hamden, Conn.), Georgia Kostopoulos (Cambridge, Mass.) and Rossi Fish (North Attleboro, Mass.), who are expected to make immediate contributions

"The first thing people will notice are the new faces along with the youthfulness that comprise this years team," said Head Coach Tony Price. "We have set our own goals and will work hard to reach them. We'll go through some growing pains for sure; as each game will bring forth its own challenges. However we'll continue to play our brand of basketball and compete."

The Sharks will open their season at home against non-conference opponent Gordon College on Tuesday, November 16 at 7:00pm.