The College of Staten Island Women’s Basketball team is set to tip off the 2025-26 campaign when they host the Conference Challenge Tournament on November 15–16, where they’ll face Franklin Pierce University and Saint Michael’s College. Building off the momentum of their most successful season in the Division II era, the Dolphins aim to not only make their fourth consecutive appearance in the East Coast Conference (ECC) postseason, but also to return to the championship stage. CSI is bringing back three veterans from last year's squad, including senior standouts Dana Phelan and Kyra Rose, who will anchor a team infused with new talent, seven incoming freshmen and two transfers. The Dolphins’ upward trajectory is reflected in the 2025-26 ECC Preseason Coaches’ Poll, where they are ranked third out of nine teams, a notable improvement from the previous year. In 2024-25, the Dolphins finished with a 21-9 overall record and a 13-3 mark in ECC play, marking a new high point since joining Division II. After an overtime victory over Mercy in the postseason semifinals, CSI advanced to its first-ever ECC Championship appearance, ultimately falling 76-68 to top-seeded Daemen College despite a strong three-quarter effort. Head Coach Nicole Sarcone enters her eighth season at the helm, leading a seasoned and refreshed coaching staff that includes returning assistants Kelsey Carey and John Hannafin, along with new additions Allie McGinn and Kayla Ferris.
Meet the Dolphins' Head Coach
Nicole Sarcone
Nicole Sarcone will enter her eighth season with the Dolphins in 2025–26. Following a successful previous season, she holds an overall coaching record of 84–82 (.506), including 42–40 (.512) in conference play. Since Sarcone's arrival, the Dolphins have steadily improved in the Division II era, becoming the first team in program history to reach the ECC postseason in 2022-23 and to advance to the ECC Championship game (2024-25).
"The success of our women’s basketball program today is built on the dedication and foundation laid by the teams that came before us. Their commitment, hard work, and belief in our vision have shaped a culture we are proud to uphold. Our objective remains consistent: to elevate our performance and achievements with each passing year. This season’s team brings a diverse range of strengths, and we are committed to leveraging those talents to develop a cohesive unit aimed to make a strong impact both within our conference and across the region." - Head Coach Nicole Sarcone
The 2025-26 Returning Class
Krya, a senior from Jersey City, NJ, has been a key contributor to the Dolphins women's basketball program over the past three seasons. Appearing in 72 games with 29 starts, she has consistently demonstrated her versatility and impact on both ends of the floor. In the 2024–25 season, she averaged 9.5 points, 5.7 rebounds, and 1.8 assists per game. Known for her scoring ability, Krya recorded a season-high 19 points against Mercy and holds a career-high of 20 points achieved during her freshman year.
Dana is a four-year member of the Dolphins women’s basketball program, known for her growth as a perimeter shooter and consistent offensive presence. She had a breakout season in 2024–25, averaging 9.9 points and 1.5 assists per game while knocking down 61 three-pointers at a 30% clip from beyond the arc. As one of the team’s most reliable long-range threats, Dana is expected to continue playing a key role in the Dolphins' scoring offense in her senior year.
Dorothy 'Doro' returns as a key veteran presence for the Dolphins, serving as both a vocal leader and a cornerstone of the team’s defensive identity. A reliable and consistent contributor, she brings stability and intensity on the court. Last season, Weise recorded 91 rebounds, 77 of which came on the defensive end, along with 18 steals and three blocks, underscoring her impact as a defensive force. As the Dolphins look to build on their momentum, Weise’s leadership and tenacity will be vital to their success.