Callahan Named Player of the Game In Bronze Medal Match

The Loyalist Lancers women's basketball team wrapped up an incredible season on Sunday afternoon at the OCAA Final Four Championship, competing in the bronze medal game against the Mohawk Mountaineers. Though the Lancers dropped the game, the loss does not overshadow the remarkable strides the program made this year or the heart this group showed on the provincial stage. 

Reaching the Final Four is a major accomplishment for a team that has spent the season growing, improving, and proving they belong among Ontario's best. The Lancers' effort, resilience, and toughness were on full display throughout championship weekend. 

In the bronze medal matchup, Grace Callahan delivered a standout performance, earning Lancers' Player of the Game honours. Callahan finished with 20 points, 6 rebounds, 3 assists, and 5 steals, showcasing her leadership and competitive fire on both ends of the floor. She set the tone early with aggressive drives and defensive toughness, keeping Loyalist steady during key stretches and embodying the grit and pride that defined this year's roster.

• Kayley Lemaire matched Callahan with 20 points of her own and pulled down a team-high 9 rebounds, giving Loyalist consistent offence in the paint. 
• Nina Anderson added 7 points and 5 rebounds off the bench, providing energy and interior presence.
• Dana Zashi Ventenilla and Sophie Vanni combined for 13 points, while continuing to work defensively and stretch the floor. 

Despite a slow start, Loyalist fought back with improved scoring in the second and third frames, totaling 19 and 18 points respectively. The Lancers also showed strength inside, earning 40 points in the paint, a testament to their physicality and willingness to attack.

This year's Lancers weren't just competitive, they changed the expectations for what the Lancers women's basketball program can be.

Their commitment, chemistry, and relentless effort carried them deep into a tough OCAA playoff field. They earned their place among the final four teams standing, demonstrating that they could compete with the strongest teams in the province and push the program forward in meaningful ways.

The Lancers walk away from the 2025–26 campaign with heads high, knowing they achieved something incredible and knowing they've built a foundation for even greater things ahead.

The future is bright for Lancers women's basketball.