West Branch product Sophia Gregory was voted Horizon League Freshman of the Year.

Gregory was named Freshman of the Week three times throughout the 2024-2025 campaign.

"Even at the beginning of the season when we started games, I figured I'd be on the bench a little more, get a feel for it, watch others and kind of grow into the role over the years," said Gregory. "I did not think I would be in this position right now."

The 6-foot-2 forward led all conference freshman with 10.1 points per game, 7.9 rebounds, 1.2 steals and 1.1 blocks.

She racked up six double-doubles, the only Horizon League freshman to do so.

"It's big for her, it shows her maturity throughout the year," said Melissa Jackson, Youngstown State women's basketball coach. "It also shows how special this freshman class has been, we knew that coming in."

Gregory ranked second in rebounding and third in blocks across the entire Horizon League.

"Unbelievable player, unbelievable person on and off the court," said Haley Thierry, Penguins senior guard. "We wouldn't be able to do the things we've done without her. She plays so hard, so well. She stays composed and when she's on the court, she's going to give it her all."