Trinity d3. Smith College Makes History: First Final Four Appearance in Women’s Basketball

How did Smith College secure their spot in the NCAA Division 3 Women’s Basketball Final Four. What were the key moments and players that led to this historic victory. How does this achievement impact the program’s legacy.

Historic Victory: Smith College Advances to First-Ever Final Four

In a thrilling display of skill and determination, Smith College’s women’s basketball team etched their name in the annals of the program’s history. The Pioneers secured a decisive 63-46 victory over Trinity in the NCAA Division 3 Elite 8, propelling them to their first-ever Final Four appearance. The electrifying atmosphere at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton bore witness to this momentous achievement, as players and fans alike celebrated the culmination of years of hard work and dedication.

The Final Moments

As the clock wound down, the realization of what they had accomplished began to sink in for the Smith College team. With over a minute left on the clock, chants of “Final Four! Final Four!” erupted from the student section, their voices echoing the magnitude of the moment. As the final buzzer sounded, emotions overflowed on the court. Players embraced, tears of joy streaming down their faces, while a small contingent of students rushed to join in the celebration.

Key Players: Morrison and Yamada Shine in Crucial Moments

Two standout performances proved instrumental in Smith’s victory over Trinity. Morgan Morrison, the NEWMAC and New England Women’s Basketball Association Player of the Year, delivered a stellar performance with her 13th double-double of the season. Morrison’s 17 points and 11 rebounds were crucial in maintaining Smith’s lead throughout the game.

Equally impressive was the sharpshooting display by Ally Yamada. The junior guard caught fire in the second quarter, pouring in 18 of her game-high 23 points during that period alone. Yamada’s hot hand from beyond the arc, where she connected on 5 of 8 attempts, helped Smith build a commanding double-digit lead.

Coach’s Perspective

Head Coach Lynn Hersey, who has been at the helm of the Pioneers for 16 years, praised her players’ performances. “The NCAA Tournament is a stage where your big players need to make big plays. This is how you advance to a Final Four,” Hersey remarked. She highlighted Morrison’s consistency and impact on both ends of the court, as well as Yamada’s clutch shooting.

Overcoming Adversity: Morrison’s Redemption

Morrison’s dominant performance in the Elite 8 was particularly sweet, considering the challenges she faced in previous tournament games. After fouling out in the Sweet 16 overtime win against Mary Washington and struggling with foul trouble in the second-round victory over St. John Fisher, Morrison was determined to make her presence felt against Trinity.

“I just wanted to come back stronger and not let other teams think that that’s a weakness for me,” Morrison explained. Her focused approach paid dividends, as she committed just two fouls while making a significant impact on both ends of the floor.

The Path to Victory: Breaking Down Smith’s Performance

Smith College’s journey to the Final Four was marked by a dominant regular season and an impressive tournament run. The Pioneers entered the Elite 8 with a 29-1 record, riding a 23-game winning streak. Their victory over Trinity extended that streak to 24 consecutive wins, showcasing the team’s consistency and ability to perform under pressure.

Game Flow and Key Runs

• Smith maintained a double-digit lead for most of the game
• Trinity made a push in the third quarter, cutting the lead to six points
• The Pioneers responded with a 5-0 run to close the third quarter, re-establishing their double-digit advantage
• Morrison’s 10 points in the third quarter helped Smith weather Trinity’s comeback attempt

Celebration and Tradition: Cutting Down the Nets

In a poignant moment following their victory, the Smith College team participated in the time-honored tradition of cutting down the nets. This ritual held special significance for the Pioneers, as it marked the second time this season they had the opportunity to do so in their home gymnasium.

“Having the second time was surreal. That’s never happened,” Yamada reflected. “That net’s been there for a while. Having two being cut in one year was just amazing.”

Coach Hersey, balancing atop the ladder in beige high heels, took the honor of removing the final piece of nylon. In a playful gesture, she tossed it like a bouquet to her waiting players, with Morrison snagging it above her teammates.

Program Legacy: A New Chapter for Smith College Basketball

This historic Final Four appearance represents a significant milestone for the Smith College women’s basketball program. Under Coach Hersey’s leadership, the team has achieved unprecedented success, including three consecutive NEWMAC titles leading up to this tournament run.

Building on Success

The Pioneers’ journey to the Final Four is the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Coach Hersey, the program’s all-time wins leader, has fostered a culture of excellence that has propelled Smith College to new heights in Division 3 basketball.

As Hersey noted, “They’ll be Hall of Fame players here at Smith someday, and they just brought their team to a Final Four. That’s something they will always have.”

Looking Ahead: The Final Four and Beyond

With their place in the Final Four secured, Smith College now turns its attention to the challenges that lie ahead. The team’s success has already left an indelible mark on the program’s history, but the Pioneers are hungry for more.

Team Mindset

The magnitude of their achievement is still sinking in for the players. As Morgan Morrison expressed, “It’s not real yet. I don’t think it’ll be real for a couple days. It feels really great to have this opportunity because not a lot of people do and just to be here, it’s unreal.”

This mixture of awe and determination will likely fuel the Pioneers as they prepare for their Final Four matchup. The team’s ability to stay focused and maintain their high level of play will be crucial as they face even tougher competition on the national stage.

Impact on Smith College and Women’s Sports

The Pioneers’ historic run to the Final Four extends beyond the basketball court. Their success shines a spotlight on Smith College athletics and women’s sports in general, potentially inspiring future generations of student-athletes.

Representation and Inspiration

As a women’s college competing at the highest levels of Division 3 basketball, Smith’s achievements serve as a powerful example of what is possible when talented athletes are given the opportunity to excel. The team’s success may encourage more young women to pursue their athletic dreams while also receiving a top-notch education.

Community Support

The enthusiastic response from the Smith College community, evident in the packed gymnasium and jubilant celebration, demonstrates the unifying power of sports. This Final Four appearance has the potential to strengthen the bonds between the college, its students, alumnae, and the wider Northampton community.

Statistical Breakdown: Keys to Smith’s Success

A closer look at the statistics from Smith’s Elite 8 victory reveals several factors that contributed to their success:

• Balanced scoring: While Yamada (23 points) and Morrison (17 points) led the way, contributions from other players were crucial
• Rebounding advantage: Morrison’s 11 rebounds helped Smith control the boards
• Three-point shooting: Yamada’s 5-of-8 performance from beyond the arc provided a significant boost
• Defense: Holding Trinity to just 46 points showcased Smith’s defensive prowess

Season-Long Excellence

Smith’s Elite 8 performance was not an isolated incident but rather a continuation of their season-long excellence. With a 30-1 record and a 24-game winning streak, the Pioneers have consistently demonstrated their ability to outperform their opponents.

The Road to the Final Four: Smith’s Tournament Journey

Smith College’s path to the Final Four was marked by impressive victories and moments of resilience. Here’s a brief overview of their tournament run:

1. Second Round: Victory over St. John Fisher
2. Sweet 16: Overtime win against Mary Washington
3. Elite 8: 63-46 triumph over Trinity

Each game presented unique challenges, from foul trouble to closely contested matchups. The Pioneers’ ability to adapt and overcome these obstacles speaks to their mental toughness and versatility as a team.

Learning from Each Challenge

The experiences gained from each tournament game have undoubtedly contributed to Smith’s growth as a team. Coach Hersey and her staff have likely used these moments as valuable teaching opportunities, refining strategies and preparing the team for the increasingly tough competition they’ll face in the Final Four.

The Broader Context: Division 3 Basketball Excellence

Smith College’s achievement is particularly noteworthy within the context of Division 3 basketball. Unlike their Division 1 counterparts, D3 programs do not offer athletic scholarships, emphasizing the true student-athlete experience.

Balancing Academics and Athletics

The success of Smith’s basketball team underscores the ability of these student-athletes to excel both on the court and in the classroom. This balance is a hallmark of Division 3 athletics and reflects the values of institutions like Smith College that prioritize holistic education.

Competitive Landscape

Reaching the Final Four is a remarkable feat in any division, but the depth of talent in Division 3 makes this accomplishment even more impressive. Smith has had to navigate a competitive field of teams, each with their own aspirations of tournament success.

Building for the Future: Smith College’s Basketball Program

While the current focus is rightfully on the team’s Final Four appearance, this success also has implications for the future of Smith College basketball. The program’s achievements create a strong foundation for continued growth and success.

Recruiting Impact

The national attention garnered by a Final Four appearance is likely to boost Smith’s recruiting efforts. Prospective student-athletes may be more inclined to consider Smith College, attracted by the opportunity to compete at a high level while receiving an excellent education.

Program Development

The experience gained from this deep tournament run will be invaluable for returning players. The leadership of seniors like Morgan Morrison has set a high standard for future teams to aspire to, creating a legacy of excellence within the program.

Conclusion: A Moment to Savor and Build Upon

As Smith College prepares for their first-ever Final Four appearance, the team, coaching staff, and entire college community have much to celebrate. This historic achievement is the result of years of hard work, dedication, and a commitment to excellence both on and off the court.

While the Pioneers are undoubtedly focused on the challenges that lie ahead in the Final Four, they have already left an indelible mark on Smith College’s athletic history. Regardless of the outcome, this team has set a new standard for what is possible in Division 3 women’s basketball.

As they cut down the nets at Ainsworth Gymnasium, the Smith College Pioneers not only celebrated their Elite 8 victory but also symbolically ushered in a new era for their program. With their talent, determination, and the unwavering support of their community, the future of Smith College basketball looks brighter than ever.

Smith reaches program’s first Final Four after beating Trinity

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  Smith College players rush the court to celebrate their NCAA Division 3 Elite 8 victory after defeating Trinity 63-46 on Saturday night at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton. STAFF PHOTO/DAN LITTLE

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  Smith College’s Katelyn Pickunka cuts a section of net after their NCAA Division 3 Elite 8 victory over Trinity on Saturday night at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton. STAFF PHOTO/DAN LITTLE

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  Smith College players rush the court to celebrate their NCAA Division 3 Elite 8 victory after defeating Trinity 63-46 on Saturday night at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton. STAFF PHOTO/DAN LITTLE

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  Smith College’s Ally Yamada cuts a section of net after their NCAA Division 3 Elite 8 victory over Trinity on Saturday night at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton. STAFF PHOTO/DAN LITTLE

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  Smith College head coach Lynn Hersey cuts down the net after their NCAA Division 3 Elite 8 victory over Trinity on Saturday night at Ainsworth Gymnasium in Northampton. STAFF PHOTO/DAN LITTLE

NORTHAMPTON – The chants began with more than a minute left.

“Final Four! Final Four! Final Four!”

The reality hit the Smith College student section long before the basketball team allowed itself to believe. Smith forward Katelyn Pickunka spread her arms wide, inviting Pioneers guard Ally Yamada in for a long hug as the clock hit all zeroes and the buzzer sounded to make it official Saturday. The rest of the team sprang off the bench and launched into them as they all embraced. Two students raced over from the bleachers, a court trickle more than a storm after an NCAA Tournament Elite 8 victory.

The scoreboard read Smith 63, Trinity 46 at Ainsworth Gymnasium.

“It’s not real yet. I don’t think it’ll be real for a couple days,” Smith senior forward Morgan Morrison said. “It feels really great to have this opportunity because not a lot of people do and just to be here, It’s unreal.”

The orange ladder was real. The scissors were real to cut down the Ainsworth Gymnasium net, the opposite one that the Pioneers usually snip after they won each of their three consecutive NEWMAC titles.

“Having the second time was surreal. That’s never happened,” Yamada said. “That net’s been there for a while. Having two being cut in one year was just amazing.”

After each player took their thread, Smith coach Lynn Hersey, who has led the Pioneers for 16 years and is their all-time wins leader, removed the rest of the nylon and whirled it around from the top step, balancing in beige high heels. She threw it like a bouquet, which Morrison grabbed above all of her teammates like a rebound.

Morrison fouled out of the team’s Sweet 16 overtime win over Mary Washington. She also struggled with foul trouble in the second-round win over St. John Fisher. With history on the line, Trinity felt her presence. Morrison registered her 13th double-double of the season with 17 points and 11 rebounds. She committed just two fouls.

“I just wanted to come back stronger and not let other teams think that that’s a weakness for me,” Morrison said. “I just tried to play the cleanest defense I’ve ever played in my life. I really wanted to take a stand and show that, we may be caught down at a moment – especially me – but we always come back.”

Smith (30-1), which won its 24th consecutive game, led by double digits for most of the game. Trinity (25-6) pulled as close as six in the third quarter on a Francesca Silva free throw with 3:16 left to make it 42-36. Smith ended the frame on a 5-0 run to stretch its advantage back to double digits. Morrison, the NEWMAC and New England Women’s Basketball Association Player of the Year, scored 10 of the Pioneers’ 12 points in the quarter.

“The NCAA Tournament is a stage where your big players need make big plays. This is how you would advance to a Final Four. Everyone has them. We have multiple,” Hersey said. “Morgan is just so consistent. She just impacts the game in so many ways. I know everybody looks at the points, but her ability to control the boards, the amount of double-doubles she gets, her rim protection for us, her ability to rotate. That was huge.”

Both Smith’s tallest player (Morrison) and smallest (Yamada) delivered when the Pioneers needed them. Yamada erupted for 18 of her 23 points in the second quarter, as the Pioneers built a double-digit lead. The junior hit 5-of-8 3s in the frame. She splashed a jumper 10 seconds into the quarter to give the Pioneers a 15-13 lead and kept hitting as they built it to double digits. Her triple with 4:46 to halftime gave Smith its first double-digit lead 29-19.

“They’ll be Hall of Fame players here at Smith some day, and they just brought their team to a Final Four,” Hersey said. “That’s something they will always have.”

Smith’s advantage ballooned to 16 with 5:22 left when Pickunka, a Hampshire Regional grad, sank two free throws to make it 58-52. The graduate student had eight points and 11 boards.

After playing their last six games at home, the Pioneers will strike out to Hartford for the Final Four to face Transylvania (31-0) in Trinity’s gym in Hartford on Saturday. They made history reaching the Elite Eight on Friday. Saturday’s Final Four trip is a pantheon moment for a program. But why stop there?

“I’m thinking about all the work that needs to be done, and preparation. For (Saturday), yeah, we’re going to celebrate this. We’re going to enjoy our time together. It’s a big accomplishment. We’re super privileged to be at a school like Smith with all the support we’ve had, and the belief that we could do something like this. That’s very meaningful to all of us,” Hersey said. “I’m just ready for more. This is fun. This is great. I don’t think this is the ultimate goal for any of us.”

Kyle Grabowski can be reached at [email protected]. Follow him on Twitter @kylegrbwsk.

Final: ⁦@SC_BBall⁩ 63, Trinity 46 in the d3 elite 8. The pioneers are blazing a new trail to the Final Four pic.twitter.com/fkcOqXI1dQ

— Kyle Grabowski (@kylegrbwsk) March 12, 2023

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“Trinity” was delivered from the Tretyakov Gallery to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior

The “Trinity” icon by Andrey Rublev was successfully transported from the Tretyakov Gallery to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior in the evening of June 3, where it will be on the feast of the Holy Trinity on June 4 and for the next two weeks, until June 18, the press service of the Ministry of Culture reported.

The icon has been installed in a capsule that provides moisture conditions, the conditions required for the preservation of the monument will be strictly controlled in the temple, the press service said. They added that employees of the Tretyakov Gallery would follow the icon.

According to Sergei Vinogradov, head of the automation and telemechanics department of the Cathedral of Christ the Savior, in order to ensure the safety of the Trinity, increased requirements are put forward for observing the temperature and humidity regime, similar to museum ones.

“In a special capsule with glass, where the icon has been moved, the set humidity level of 55% will be maintained. In addition, we have duplicated ventilation and air conditioning systems working for the central temple, as well as refrigeration machines that will be launched as needed,” Vinogradov said.

The icon was transported in special vehicles equipped with “air suspension, climate control and various security systems,” the Ministry of Culture said. A special packing box was made for the transportation of the Trinity.

Earlier, the Russian Orthodox Church reported that believers will be able to bow to the icon daily from 10:00 to 19:00, technical breaks lasting up to an hour are possible.

On May 15, the website of the Moscow Patriarchate of the Russian Orthodox Church reported that Russian President Vladimir Putin, in response to numerous requests from the Orthodox, decided to return the church of the Trinity icon of St. Andrei Rublev. Later, the Ministry of Culture clarified that the icon would be exhibited on June 4 in the Cathedral of Christ the Savior on the day of the Holy Trinity. After exhibiting, the image will be sent for restoration, and then moved to the Trinity Cathedral of the Holy Trinity Sergius Lavra. But already on May 23, the members of the expert council came to the conclusion that the icon could not be taken out of the Tretyakov Gallery on the feast of the Trinity on June 4 due to the unstable state of the relic. After that, the Russian Orthodox Church proposed to create a protective capsule with an inert gas to preserve the relic.

On May 24, the commission on the culture of ancient and medieval Rus’ of the Scientific Council of the Russian Academy of Sciences “History of World Culture” appealed to the Minister of Culture Olga Lyubimova with a request to prevent the destruction of the Trinity icon, which could occur due to the movement of the canvas from the Tretyakov Gallery. Presidential spokesman Dmitry Peskov then said that the Kremlin would hold consultations with experts on the movement of the icon.

Later, the Ministry of Culture reported that the Trinity icon would be moved to the Cathedral of Christ the Savior for two weeks from June 4th. They emphasized that the safety of the icon will be ensured by “all the necessary and most modern means” during transportation and exposure. Upon completion of the two-week exposure, the icon will be sent for planned restoration and conservation.

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