The Clark women’s basketball team powered its way to the NEWMAC finals for the first time since 2005 before falling to Smith College, 72–65. It was Clark’s first appearance in the conference title game since 2005. Coach Bridgette Reyes’ squad finished the season with a 19–9 record.
The Cougars reached the NEWMAC Tournament for the 18th time and won their first tournament game since 2017 with a decisive victory over WPI in the quarterfinals, earning their eighth semifinal appearance in program history. Clark advanced to the final with a 68–51 victory against Babson. Against No. 1-ranked Smith (27–1), Clark led going into the fourth quarter, but the Bears rallied for the victory.
Despite the loss, Clark players put forth a tremendous effort. Among the impressive numbers:
- Clark made 22 shots, hit 10 three-pointers, grabbed 26 rebounds, dished out seven assists, and forced 18 turnovers.
- Atiya Watson ’29 netted a career-high 24 points with seven made shots, connected on seven free throws, and hit three triples.
- Kailey Rios ’27 added 11 points, made three three-pointers, and tallied three steals.
- Emma Drefs ’27 also reached double-figures with 10 points and a pair of threes.
The men’s team (12–13) also earned a berth in the NEWMAC tournament before losing a hard-fought quarterfinal battle to Salve Regina, 67–61.
