Loyola Marymount University’s women’s basketball program is set to bolster its backcourt with the signing of three transfer guards, a move that promises added depth and experience for the Lions.
Nordstrom Brings Scoring and Leadership
Shawnee Nordstrom arrives from California Baptist, where she spent two seasons as a junior guard. In her sophomore campaign she posted averages of 8.7 points, 3.4 rebounds and 2.0 assists per game, numbers that helped the Bruins capture both the Western Athletic Conference regular‑season title and tournament championship. Her contributions earned her a spot on the WAC All‑Tournament Team and a nomination for the McDonald’s All‑American award, underscoring her reputation as a reliable scorer and on‑court leader.
Brantley's Two‑Way Versatility
Janay Brantley, a senior transfer from Stony Brook University, brings a blend of scoring and defensive grit. She averaged 12.4 points per game last season while also pulling down 125 rebounds, generating 40 steals and blocking 21 shots. High school coaches remember her as a dominant force at Catskill High, where she led her team to a Patroon Conference championship, a trajectory that has continued to shape her collegiate impact.
Finney's Global Experience
Erica Finney, a redshirt freshman from the University of Illinois, enters the program with an international résumé that includes representation of Team Australia at the 2024 FIBA U17 World Cup. In the 2024 Australian National Championships she posted 12.9 points, 5.5 rebounds and 1.4 steals per game, earning the Metro Junior Female Player of the Year honor. Finney also played a pivotal role in guiding the Norths Bears to a state title earlier this year, highlighting her ability to perform under pressure on a global stage.
The trio of Nordstrom, Brantley and Finney offers the Lions a mix of scoring punch, all‑court versatility and seasoned poise, positioning LMU’s backcourt to compete at a higher level in the coming season.