The Army Women still have more basketball to play. The Black Knights made Patriot League history in their 74–63 win over La Salle, becoming the first Patriot League school to reach the Great Eight of the Women’s National Invitational Tournament (WNIT).
The Story Continues 🎬#SetTheTone pic.twitter.com/zDxBXevtrd
— Army Women's Basketball (@ArmyWP_WBB) March 26, 2026
Army took control early and never looked back, a drastic improvement from their first‑round game against NJIT. The Black Knights raced to a 45–29 halftime lead and pushed the margin to 26 in the second half. La Salle launched a furious fourth‑quarter rally, but Army answered every punch and closed out an 11‑point win.
Forward Kya Smith delivered another solid performance with 16 points and five rebounds, but Reece Ericson stole the show. Ericson drilled five threes on her way to 19 points. Camryn Tade and Fiona Hastick also reached double figures. Overall, Army played efficient, confident basketball, shooting 56 percent from the field and hitting 10 of 19 from deep (53%).
The win over the Explorers adds to an already impressive non‑conference résumé that includes a victory over MEAC champion Howard. La Salle entered the game 19–13 with ten Atlantic 10 wins, including one over conference tournament champion Rhode Island. A win of this magnitude lifts the profile of the entire Patriot League.
👀 @ArmyWP_WBB is the first Patriot League school to advance to the @WomensNIT Great 8! @MarchMadnessWBB @espnW pic.twitter.com/H9tPddkoan
— Patriot League (@PatriotLeague) March 26, 2026
Army will face the winner of Friday’s Youngstown State–Marshall game. Both teams present tougher matchups than La Salle. Youngstown State leans on a stifling defense, holding opponents to 57 points per game on 36 percent shooting and just 26 percent from three. Marshall brings the opposite challenge, running an efficient offense that averages 72 points per game.
No matter where this run ends, the culture around Army women’s basketball has changed. Winning is the expectation now. Participation in the WNIT is no longer the prize — the Black Knights are bona fide contenders. With a young roster and growing continuity, this group can build a winning identity that lasts through an era defined by constant roster turnover.
Black Knights Basketball 🤌
— Army Women's Basketball (@ArmyWP_WBB) March 25, 2026
📺 ESPN+ | #SetTheTone pic.twitter.com/zwDFgkpqQl
We can debate what this run means for the future of Coach Katie Kuester’s program or where this team ranks among the all‑time greats. For now, Army fans should enjoy a postseason surge decades in the making.
Go Army!
