The Iona College women’s basketball team has had a rough season, but it hasn’t stopped many of the players from performing their best individually and being recognized for it.

One of those breakout players is freshman Toyosi Abiola, who has proved herself week after week and displayed long-term potential.

“[She has] really made a mark on our program,” head coach Billi Chambers said.

Abiola has averaged 13.3 points and 35.4 minutes per game. Her play this season has led to seven Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference Rookie of the Week awards.

Abiola, who is from London, had to make to adjustments on and off the court. According to Chambers, Abiola has done well transitioning to life in the United States.

“She’s handled it extremely well,” Chambers said. “Home sickness early on is normal for any freshman, but I think she’s done an incredible job of coming over right away and building friendships amongst her teammates.”

Despite coming from a much different background compared to her teammates, Abiola has integrated her play into the philosophy of the Gaels, making her a vital part on the young roster. While playing well individually is important, being a key part to a greater whole is a must.

“I think it’s very important,” Chambers said. “Especially with some of the adversity we hit this year with a lot of injuries and not being able to have some of our older players ready to go.”

Abiola leads the team in minutes, which is eye-popping since she is only a freshman. However, the on-court experience Abiola and the rest of the young players are receiving is helping build team chemistry, which can be beneficial down the road.

“It’s interesting for me,” Chambers said, “Because I don’t know that I would be that person who trusts them so much to throw them out there as much as they are if some of the adversity had not hit.”

Abiola is proving that trusting freshmen in dire situations can really pay off. With more experience and time, Abiola is set out to be a player to watch in the MAAC for many seasons to come.

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