Princeton's 15-Game Victory Streak: Aiming for Ivy League History
Princeton's women's basketball team is on a remarkable 15-game winning streak, positioning themselves near Ivy League history as they aim for the NCAA tournament.
Princeton is on an impressive run, having accrued a 15-game winning streak—the third-longest in women’s basketball. As they rise to No. 19 in the AP Top 25, their highest ranking since 2015, the future looks bright. Coach Carla Berube emphasized their goals remain focused on winning the Ivy League title and succeeding in the NCAA tournament.
“Our goals have remained our goals,” coach Carla Berube told CBS Sports. “And that’s to be Ivy League champs, regular season and to be in the NCAA tournament and get some great games, hopefully. We’ve been successful in the past. The last couple of years we’ve lost in the first round and we are looking forward to more.”
Currently, CBS Sports bracketologist Connor Groel positions Princeton as a No. 6 seed, an exciting prospect as no Ivy League team has advanced past the second round in women’s tournament history.
Background
Previously, Princeton reached the second round of the NCAA Tournament in 2015, 2022, and 2023. Their strongest showing was in 2015 when they entered with a flawless record of 31-0 but fell to Maryland. This year, the season commenced with a victory over Georgia Tech, setting a positive tone.
Madison St. Rose’s Return
Madison St. Rose, their senior guard and 2023 Ivy League Rookie of the Year, is leading the team with 16.5 points per game after returning from an ACL injury. Her work ethic and determination have been pivotal.
“It just goes to show what kind of drive and work ethic she has,” Berube said. “And also just passion. She loves this game so much.”
Team Dynamics and Player Highlights
Princeton boasts a balanced team with all five starters contributing significantly. Key players include:
- Fadima Tall
- Skye Belker
- Ashley Chea
- Olivia Hutcherson.
Hutcherson has notably improved this season, doubling her scoring average, while Chea has proven clutch under pressure, hitting key shots in tight games.
Season Outlook
Looking ahead to March, Princeton aims to secure a favorable seed in the tournament, which historically would be momentous for the Ivy League. They are focused on maintaining their undefeated streak in conference play and winning the Ivy League tournament to enhance their chances.
