CALDWELL, N.J. -- When Marissa Sorvillo dropped 11 points against Jefferson in the Cougars' near-upset of the nationally-ranked Rams at the Newman Center, fans in the know realized it was more than just an unexpected outburst from the Cougars' guard. It was another big step in the return to action for the Charlotte, N.C. native who had seen just one minute in one game of action in her first two seasons in red and white due to injury.

Sorvillo kept working hard despite the setbacks, becoming a key reserve for the Cougars last year, when she saw action in 13 games, starting one, and averaging 2.4 points per game. In 2025-26, she hopes that perseverance pays off even more, as the two-time Academic Honor Roll and CACC All-Academic performer looks for an even bigger role on the experienced squad.

She took a few minutes in advance of Friday's opener to talk about the season and her road back.

What is your main goal for your team this season, both on and off the court?

Our main goal this season is to win as many games as we can and take home the CACC championship. We want to play together, compete and have fun while doing it.

What is a team motto or a core value that will drive your team this season?

Our team motto is price is up every day. It means that with each practice and game played the value goes up and how important they become. We need to stay focused as we grind through the season.

What is the one thing you want fans to know about your team?

I want them to know that all 16 players bring something special to this team. We have a very talented group this year. We feel that we all have something to prove as a team and individually.

Who is a player on your team that we should be watching out for this season, and why

It is hard to single out just one player. We have some players who have worked very hard to come back from injuries and others who have been perfecting their craft.

What is one personal goal you're striving for this season?

I have many personal goals that I strive for during the season. The most important one is to try and help make my teammates better, by challenging and supporting them in any way I can. I want to challenge myself too and get out of my comfort zone.

What are you most looking forward to in your first season as a Senior Team Leader?

I am looking forward to guiding my fellow teammates and making myself available whenever they need me. I will be one of the players who will keep the energy up when things get difficult.

After you graduate, what are you hoping to do next?

After I graduate, I plan on getting my master's degree in sports management and marketing. I am going to continue working with Go Brazee Energy.

Is there anything else you'd like to share about your team or this season that we haven't asked about?  

Keep a close eye on us this season. It's going to be an exciting year!