From record-breaking track performances to milestone wins and roster rebuilding, Principia winter sport teams used winter break to shape the rest of their seasons. While many students left campus for the break, Principia athletics remained active across multiple programs. Over the past several weeks, teams have set school records, reached career milestones, and worked through roster challenges that will shape the remainder of the season.

Women’s basketball builds historic momentum while chasing a second championship

The program is currently on an 11-game unbeaten run, the longest in program history, and sits tied for first place in the conference.

Head Coach Ramiro Dominguez earned his 50th career win Jan. 7, marking another milestone in a season already defined by strong team performance. 

Dominguez said the leadership of seniors Taylor Brown, Lamiya Terrell, Ariana Williams, Hannah Myers, and Trinity Matthews has helped define the team’s identity.

The team has seen major individual achievements this season. Williams reached 1,000 career points against Lyon College on Jan. 17, while Matthews reached the same milestone during Senior Day at home against Mississippi University for Women on Feb. 14, in front of the home crowd.

Dominguez said success for the program extends beyond wins and losses.

“The scoreboard doesn’t always define success,” Dominguez said. “The relationships, teamwork, and memories these athletes build — that’s what really lasts.”

The team continues to focus on a game-by-game approach as it competes for conference tournament positioning.

Men’s basketball focuses on growth during injury-heavy season

Principia men’s basketball team entered conference play facing unexpected roster challenges after multiple season-ending injuries early in the year.

Junior Jacob Mora suffered a knee injury during the team’s first scrimmage, and sophomore Donald Averett was also out for the season due to an injury sustained during preseason training. The injuries forced younger players into major roles earlier than anticipated, contributing to the team’s current 2-10 conference record.

Assistant Coach Shemarri Miles said the season has required younger players to gain experience quickly.

“We have a lot of young guys being thrown into the fire,” Miles said. “You might not see the results you want right now, but they’re gaining experience that will help them later.”

To address roster depth, the program added two recruits over winter break, freshmen KJ Waddell and Wyatt Gravil. Athletic Director Ramiro Dominguez described both players as strong additions athletically and culturally.

During break, the team played Division I Saint Louis University (SLU) on Dec. 28. Despite the loss, Miles said the game provided valuable competitive experience.

“It shows our players what that level really looks like,” Miles said. “It motivates them to see how much work it takes to get there.”

Despite the team’s challenges this season, individual performances have continued to stand out. Junior Nolan Simon was named Conference Player of the Week for the third time this season after recording a career-high 41-point double-double in a close overtime loss to Greenville. The performance strengthened Nolan’s conference scoring lead, and he currently ranks 10th nationally, averaging 24.7 points per game. 

Track and field break records as the season progresses

At the start of the season, senior Quan Daniels broke a 34-year Principia indoor shot put record with a throw of 44 feet, 8.75 inches (13.63 meters), surpassing the previous record set in 1991.

On Jan. 30 at Crafton Athletic Center, freshman Danielle Vargas set a new women’s 500-meter school record with a time of 1:22.41. The same day, senior Nana Koranteng set a new men’s 300-meter school record with a time of 35.66.

Koranteng said winter break training helped prepare him for the season.

“During break, we had daily workouts sent to us,” Koranteng said. “I stayed locked into the plan and trusted the work.”

Koranteng said his focus for his final season is maximizing every opportunity.

“This is my last season, so I’m trying to empty the tank,” he said. “I want to make sure I accomplish everything I can.”