Santa Clara women's basketball has secured two key transfers from New Mexico: guard Joana Magalhaes and forward Emma Najjuma. Both players will bring additional strength to the team and have two years of eligibility left. Head Coach Loree Payne expressed enthusiasm about their athleticism and past successes, highlighting their potential impact in both offense and defense.

By the Numbers
  • Joana Magalhaes averaged 8.7 points and 1.6 steals per game last season, starting in 28 out of 30 games.
  • Emma Najjuma recorded 3.2 points and 6.3 rebounds per game with a 64.8% shooting percentage, while leading her team with 21 blocks.
State of Play
  • Both players are expected to fill crucial roles, particularly in rebounding and defense, which were areas of concern for last season’s team.
  • Santa Clara aims to boost its competitiveness after a challenging season, looking to build momentum with these acquisitions.
What's Next

The Broncos will integrate Magalhaes and Najjuma into their training regimen to optimize team chemistry ahead of the upcoming season. If successful, they could significantly enhance the team’s performance and effectiveness on the court.

Bottom Line

With the addition of Magalhaes and Najjuma, Santa Clara women's basketball is strategically positioning itself for a stronger season by infusing talent and experience into the roster. Their successful integration could prove pivotal in enhancing the team's overall competitiveness in the league.