After some twenty days off, the #25 Black Knights returned to action with a statement, 64-56, win over the #14 Howard Bison yesterday.
Christl Arena felt more like a battleground than a basketball court throughout most of this one, but Army Women’s Basketball made sure that this battle would be one to remember. The team set the tone early, hitting the court with a locker room battle cry that perfectly reflected the action to come. From the opening tip to the final horn, the Black Knights brought fight, grit, and undeniable energy, closing out their non-conference schedule with a statement win over a ranked opponent and improving to an impressive 9–2 record overall.
Lynn Fern shot this game yesterday. More pics from her Photobook are available on our Patreon page.
Forward Kya Smith played electric, unstoppable basketball yesterday, giving both fans and her teammates a show to remember. She put on an historic performance, recording 27 points and 22 rebounds, including 14 on the defensive end. This marked just the fifth 20-point, 20-rebound game in program history and made her just the second woman in the entire NCAA to accomplish that feat this season. Friends, she dominated out there, willing her team to victory through sheer strength and determination.
Kya left us speechless today 🤯#GoArmy | #SetTheTone pic.twitter.com/rzh0JuqCjy
— Army Women's Basketball (@ArmyWP_WBB) December 29, 2025
Complimenting Smith, Army welcomed Guard/Forward Fiona Hastick back from injury. Hastick made her season debut off the bench, playing nine minutes and giving the team some veteran leadership. Meanwhile, Army’s lone firstie, Guard Reese Ericson, added nine key points after being held scoreless in last year’s matchup, while yearling Guard Brooke Wilson sacrificed her body, drawing a critical offensive foul to swing momentum back to the Black Knights just when they needed it.
Howard made a push early in the game’s fourth quarter, but Army never flinched, chipping away and eventually reclaiming the lead for good. First-year Head Coach Katie Kuester brought fire and passion from the sidelines, capping the night with an electrifying locker room celebration.
Nothing beats a postgame locker room celebration 🎉#GoArmy | #SetTheTone pic.twitter.com/Hpm20Ngnsj
— Army Women's Basketball (@ArmyWP_WBB) December 29, 2025
If this game previews what’s ahead for Army’s Women, then buckle up. We’re in for a ride to remember. The Black Knights will open Patriot League play against Lehigh at 1 pm tomorrow night at Christl Arena. Catch that on ESPN+ or via The Varsity Network.
Go Army! Beat Lehigh!!!
