A young basketball player from P.E.I. is set to elevate her game and potentially her sports career as she prepares to attend university next year. Alex Newson has recently committed to studying at the State University of New York at Albany, where she will be an athlete for the Albany Great Danes team. This significant move marks a historic moment as Newson is believed to be the first-ever basketball player from P.E.I. to compete in NCAA Division I basketball.
Expressing her excitement, Newson mentioned, “It’s great, honestly, I think it’s even better being from a small province. I hope to inspire other people, especially girls who play basketball. I think it’s growing a lot in the province.” Newson’s basketball journey began at the age of five, and she later relocated to Ontario before grade 11 to join King’s Christian Collegiate. This move allowed her to engage in year-round basketball in one of the country’s top leagues.
Reflecting on her experiences, Newson highlighted the exposure to high-level competition by playing against exceptional Division I and national team players, as well as the opportunities to showcase her skills in the U.S. for recruitment purposes. Setting her sights on NCAA Division I basketball became a dream for Newson following her move to Ontario. She progressively improved her game, solidifying her belief that reaching this level was indeed achievable.
Earlier this year, Newson represented Team P.E.I. at the Canada Games in St. John’s, N.L., where she shared the court with her father, who coached the team and is a former Canada Games athlete. Newson expressed immense gratitude towards her parents, acknowledging their unwavering support throughout her basketball journey.
Newson’s decision to commit to the University at Albany has relieved a significant pressure off her shoulders, recognizing the rarity and significance of playing NCAA basketball, especially as a Canadian. She emphasized the importance of making a positive impact as a freshman player, aiming to contribute to the team’s success while honing her skills. Looking ahead, Newson remains open to various possibilities in her basketball career, including the prospect of playing professionally with the guidance of her coaches.
Before embarking on her basketball training at the University at Albany next summer, Newson is focused on completing her final year of high school studies. She anticipates not only enhancing her basketball abilities but also commencing her academic journey in biology at the university in the upcoming fall semester.
