NORTH ANDOVER, Mass. – Missy Traversi wants to make the uncommon a common aspect of Merrimack women's basketball.
Traversi on Wednesday was introduced as the Warriors head coach in a room full of student-athletes, athletic administration and media. The Mass. native was announced as the women's basketball coach two days prior, following the departure of
Kelly Morrone.
"We will be uncommon in our preparation," Traversi said. "Uncommon in our effort and energy. Uncommon in our positivity. Uncommon in our pursuit of excellence. Uncommon in the believe in ourselves and one another. We will be a team of uncommon women for an uncommon mission."
According to Traversi, Merrimack will be defined by its core values including elite preparation, effort and execution.
"When it comes to building a winning program, it starts with people and culture. That will always be our foundation," Traversi said. "It's about unifying our players and staff, building belief in one another, and creating something bigger than ourselves."
Traversi arrives at Merrimack after a successful four-year stint at Army where she compiled a 65-54 record, including a 25-win season in 2024-25. It represented the second-most wins in program history. Prior to her taking the over at the academy, she led the Division II Adelphi Panthers to a pair of 27-win seasons behind a nationally ranked offense and nationally ranked scoring defense.
"From a basketball standpoint, our style of play will reflect who we are," Traversi said. "Disciplined, efficient and fast. We will take care of the ball, defend with intelligence, limit turnovers, crash the boards and play together.
"Offensively, we'll space the floor with shooters, make the extra pass, and value efficiency while embracing versatility."
The hiring of Traversi comes after the Warriors finished the regular season with the third-best record in the Metro Atlantic Athletic Conference (MAAC). Merrimack reached the conference tournament semifinals in each of the past two seasons.
Traversi, who credited Morrone and company for elevating the program since transitioning to Division I, fully intends to continue the level of success.
"What drew me to Merrimack is simple: This is a school on the rise," said Traversi, who reflected on facing the Warriors when she coached at Adelphi. "Everywhere you turn, there's energy, growth and excitement. Something special is happening here, and I am thrilled to be a part of it."
