A high school basketball standout from Prince Edward Island (P.E.I.) is gearing up to elevate her game and athletic journey as she prepares to attend university next year. Alex Newson has recently committed to enrolling at the State University of New York at Albany, where she will be a part of the Albany Great Danes basketball team.
Newson is set to make history as she steps onto the court with the team, becoming the first basketball player from P.E.I. to play NCAA Division I basketball. Expressing her excitement, Newson shared her aspiration to inspire other individuals, particularly young female basketball players, in the growing basketball community of the province.
Having started playing basketball at the age of five, Newson’s dedication to the sport led her to relocate to Ontario before the 11th grade to join King’s Christian Collegiate. This move allowed her to compete year-round in a top-tier league, facing off against formidable Division I and national team players while showcasing her skills to potential recruiters in the United States.
Following her transition to Ontario and a successful season with her new team, Newson realized she could aim even higher to fulfill her dream of reaching the next level in her basketball career. Her journey culminated in securing a spot on the University at Albany’s roster, a significant achievement that she attributes to her relentless pursuit of improvement.
Earlier this year, Newson had the honor of representing Team P.E.I. as the province’s flag bearer at the Canada Games in St. John’s, N.L., where she competed as a key player in P.E.I.’s basketball squad, a memorable experience shared with her father, who coached the team and had competed in the Canada Games three decades ago.
Newson acknowledged the unwavering support of her parents, emphasizing their pivotal role in her success and decision to commit to Albany. With plans to pursue a biology degree at the university, Newson eagerly anticipates the commencement of classes in the upcoming fall term.
Looking ahead, Newson is focused on her upcoming training sessions at Albany, recognizing the rarity of the opportunity to play NCAA basketball, especially as a Canadian athlete. She aims to make a positive impact as a freshman player, contributing to the team’s victories while honing her skills and leaving the door open for potential professional opportunities with the guidance of her coaches.
While harboring ambitions of a prolonged basketball career, Newson remains open to various possibilities, including the prospect of playing professionally. However, her immediate priority is to complete her senior year of high school before embarking on the next chapter of her basketball journey at the University at Albany.
