LAWRENCEVILLE, NJ – Rider University head women's basketball coach Jackie Hartzell has announced the signing of three student-athletes, who will join the Broncs for the 2025-26 season.
 

Alena Cofield
Guard/Langhorne, PA
 
Accomplishments:  A three-sport athlete in high school, Cofield was two time All-SOL performer, earning both First- and Second-Team honors. Additionally, she was named Division MVP and a Univest Featured Athlete.
 
Hartzell on Cofield: The meteoric rise in Alena's game since beginning 4 years ago to what it is now is a tribute to her incredible work ethic. We believe she'll continue to improve at the same rate at Rider and be a leader on and off the court.
 

Daniya Brown
Guard/Fairfax, VA
 
Accomplishments: A four-year letter winner between Bishop O'Connell and Chantilly High Schools, Brown earned Second-Team All-WCAC honors after averaging 14 points and four steals as a senior.
 
Hartzell on Brown: We are very fortunate to get a guard with such a great skill set. Daniya can fluently run a team as well as play off the ball. She also has a high on court IQ and will fit in perfectly with our style of play at Rider.
 

Deborah Okechukwu
Guard/Washington, DC
 
Accomplishments:  A junior college transfer who played at CCBC and Harcum College, Okechukwu earned Region 20 All-Tournament Team honors in 2024 and was invited to the NJCAA Top-40 Camp. In high school, she was a DC All-State player in 2020 and earned WCAC Honorable Mention in 2022.
 
Hartzell on Okechukwu: Deb has the ability to play with her back to the basket and she can get downhill off the bounce from the perimeter. Deb's physical strength and toughness make her a difficult match-up for opponents.