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The backcourt from the provincial champion Fredericton High School Black Kats has decided to stick together next year as members of the St. Thomas University Tommies.

Vanessa Soffee and Emily Owens, who recently won the NBIAA 'AAA' women's basketball title, committed to join the STU squad on the court next season, along with teammate Kiandra MacMullin who announced her commitment to the team in December.

Tommies head coach Fred Connors is thrilled with the new additions and is excited to see them develop in his program.

"I believe Vanessa and Emily combined make the best backcourt in the province and I'm really excited to get to work with them," he said.

Soffee brings high-level skill and worth ethic to the Tommies. She's had a notable career with the Black Kats and Connors is eager to add her leadership and ability to run offence to his roster.

"Vanessa can score when needed but shares the ball and makes good decisions," he said. "Defensively, I think she can defend in the open court and has great hands. She will be a great addition to our team."

Growing up in Fredericton, Soffee was familiar with the Tommies and their reputation—something she said she wants to be a part of.

"Their competitiveness and grit reflects a hard working team. Coach Connors and the STU Tommies are a perfect fit to further my basketball career," she said. "STU seems like a warm and welcoming community and I know I will receive a great post-secondary education studying there."

Owens, who will join her sister Madison on the Tommies roster, was also looking to join a gritty program.

"Not only is STU a great school, its basketball program is very well-respected," she said. "I can't wait to play with this determined and hard working group."

Owens was a member of the Basketball New Brunswick U16 and U17 teams and has shown growth in her ability to shoot and score the ball. Connors is happy to have another scoring threat, but is keen to add her defensive skill to his lineup.

"Emily is feisty and isn't scared to play physical basketball," Connors said. "She was named her team's defensive player of the year last season as she can shut down players in multiple positions. She will fit in well with our style of play."

The Tommies finished the regular season with a record of 11-7 in the Atlantic Collegiate Athletic Association and will face the University of King's College Blue Devils in the conference quarterfinals Friday at 11:00 am in Truro, NS.

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