STATEN ISLAND, NY – The College of Staten Island women's basketball team is set to tip off the 2025-26 season by hosting the East Region Conference Challenge, featuring Franklin Pierce University, Holy Family University, and Saint Michael's College on November 15-16. The Dolphins will open the campaign against Franklin Pierce, holding a 2-0 all-time series lead after victories in both their first-ever meeting in 1984 and last season's matchup.

In their 2024 meeting, the two teams battled evenly through the first half, with the Ravens holding a narrow 30-29 edge at the break. However, a dominant second-half surge propelled CSI to a 72-47 victory, as the Dolphins held Franklin Pierce to single digits in each of the final two quarters. Senior returner Dana Phelan contributed 11 points, ranking among the team's top three scorers in the win. As a unit, CSI shot 44% (27-62) from the field and 39% (9-23) from three-point range, including a scorching 50% clip from beyond the arc in the third and fourth quarters to seal the victory.

The Dolphins enter the new season with seven newcomers joining the program alongside three returners. Among the new additions are transfers Racky Kane (LIU) and Shonaye Edmonds (SUNY Sullivan), both eager to make an immediate impact as CSI looks to build momentum in the opening weekend.