Allison O’Hanlon, once a standout at Duanesburg High School and a key contributor for Siena College, has been away from the hardwood for two years, a period marked by a series of foot surgeries that kept her off the court and out of the lineup.
The recovery process began with a left‑foot procedure and culminated in an operation to correct a Haglund’s deformity, injuries that not only sidelined her but also forced her to watch teammates battle from the sidelines, a reality that proved both frustrating and isolating.
During those months of rehabilitation, O’Hanlon discovered a surprising source of motivation: the simple act of shooting 60 consecutive 15‑foot jumpers at a local fitness club, a routine that reminded her of the rhythm she once chased on college gyms.
A New Chapter at Daemen
Her perseverance paid off when she entered the transfer portal and caught the eye of Daemen University’s coaching staff, led by head coach Nate Beutel, who had been monitoring her progress and offered a scholarship that aligned with her academic and athletic goals.
Now committed to the Division II program, O’Hanlon will join a Daemen squad that reached the NCAA East Regional Final last season, a team that finished with a 26‑4 record and looks to build on that success with the addition of a player who brings over 2,500 career points of experience.
With four years of eligibility remaining, she hopes to be fully healthy by December or January, when the Achilles tendon injury that has lingered could finally be behind her, allowing her to step onto the court and contribute immediately.
Looking Ahead
The announcement has been welcomed by the campus community and alumni alike, who see in O’Hanlon not only a talented scorer but also a leader who can mentor younger players and help restore the program’s competitive edge.
Beyond the statistics, her story underscores the broader narrative of athletes who must balance physical setbacks with the mental resilience required to return to elite competition, a journey that resonates with fans and aspiring players alike.
As the new season approaches, O’Hanlon remains focused on incremental progress, knowing that each practice session brings her closer to the moment when she can finally showcase the full breadth of her skill set on the national stage.