The Hollins University basketball team enjoyed a breakthrough year in 2010-11, winning more games than in any season since 2002. Coach Jim Phillips looks to build on last year’s success as he starts his second season at the program’s helm.

Hollins lost only one senior from the 2010-11 campaign and anticipates competing for a slot in the ODAC tournament this year with a talented core of returning players and a solid first-year class. Hollins will look for continued leadership and point production from juniors Jasmine Greene (2nd team All-ODAC last year), Lacie Forrest, and Brittany Hanavan.

Coach Phillips expects significant production from his sophomore class. Chanci Wright, Brandi Chesne, and Molly Tahmaseb all have the potential to provide scoring depth, inside presence, and rebounding, while Carrie Cox gives Hollins a deep three-point threat. Morgan Wood, Hollins’ Most Improved Player in 2010-11, adds depth and athleticism at the guard position.

The incoming first-year class could be the most talented class in Hollins basketball history. Lauren Morris, a 5’11” swing player, can both post up and shoot the long ball. Britney Campbell brings speed, athleticism, and depth to an already gifted group of guards. Lauren Hays, a 6’1” post from Texas, provides Hollins an attitude and toughness in the paint. Racheal Crowder, Kaelie Huddle, Kristen O’Neal, and Mercury Hipp round out the deep incoming class where everyone has the ability to compete for playing time as the season gets under way.

Another positive for Hollins is the stability of the coaching staff. Assistant coaches Sarah Otey and Wes Blessard return for the new season, giving the program crucial continuity as it continues to develop.

Coach Phillips and his young Hollins squad are poised to take a giant leap forward this season. Look out for the Greene Machine this coming season.

2010-11 Season highlights

With a roster that featured seven first-years, four sophomores, and only one senior, the Hollins University basketball team in 2010-11 nevertheless enjoyed its best season in eight years, winning six games and losing seven other contests by just four points or less. Highlights included victories over Emory and Henry College, Alice Lloyd College, and Southern Virginia University.

Pacing the Hollins squad this season were Tamara Phillips '11 and Jasmine Greene '13.

With another talented incoming first-year class of seven players for 2011-12, Coach Jim Phillips is looking forward to building upon the success of this season.

Photo: Front row, left to right: Racheal Crowder, Morgan Wood, Lacie Forrest, Jasmine Greene, Brittany Hanavan, Carrie Cox, Mercury Hipp Back row, left to right: Coach Jim Phillips, Kristen O'Neal, Britney Campbell, Lauren Morris, Brandi Chesne, Chanci Wright, Lauren Hays, Molly Tabmaseb, Kaelie Huddle, Assistant Coach Wes Blessard, Assistant Coach Sarah Otey. (Photo courtesy of Hollins Sports Information).