The Lady Jackets laced up their shoes and were back on the court as the 2026-2027 season kicked off this past Friday with a 71-63 loss against non-conference Mount Aloysius. 

“It’s always exciting to start a new season,” head coach Sam Jones said. “Although it was a frustrating night, I am looking forward continuing to work and grow this year as a group.” 

Waynesburg got out to an early 17-13 start with help from Jaden Sturm, Macie Justice and Kara McFadden. They would continue to hold their lead late into the first quarter and carried it into the second quarter. 

Freshman Alaina Holtz got to see her first action in a Waynesburg uniform as she tallied ten points, eight rebounds and two assists.  

“I was definitely nervous, but I was also excited and happy to be back on the court,” Holtz said. “It’s something I’ve been looking forward to, so being able to finally get out there and compete was a special feeling. More than anything I was just grateful for the opportunity to play again and do what I love.”  

Holtz was the second leading scorer behind McFadden, who led the team with sixteen points. Waynesburg kept fighting despite being down 30-27 at the half and came crawling back to cut it to within five, but the valiant effort would fall short as the Mounties bested the Jackets, 71-63.  

“This is early,” Jones said. “There are always lessons on areas to continue to work on and just better execution on both ends.” 

Waynesburg did have some positives on the night as they scored 22 points off turnovers and had 14 second chance points.  

“I think we saw how much talent we have and how much each person brings to the team,” Holtz said. “It’s about putting all of that together, trusting each other, playing confidently and bringing that urgency every time we step on the court.” 

The Yellow Jackets will be back in action for their home opener on Wednesday night, when they host Pitt-Greensburg in non-conference action. Tip-off is scheduled for 7 p.m.