Women's Basketball Continues To Add For 2026-27 With Olivia Grgicevich Lassey

RIVERDALE, N.Y. - In continued anticipation for the upcoming 2026-27 basketball season starting in November, Manhattan University's women's basketball program has added a transfer prospect in New Zealand-born Olivia Grgicevich Lassey, announced by Head Coach Heather Vulin on Tuesday afternoon. 

Spending her first two seasons at NJCAA member Collin College in Plano, Texas, the 5'11 guard brings a long list of skills to Riverdale. 

"Olivia is a true winner and the ultimate teammate. Over two seasons, she helped lead her program to a 44-18 record, and that kind of consistent success speaks to her impact." commented Vulin. 

Lassey started in all 58 games she played in for the Cougars, averaging nine points per game along with a 44% shooting average from the field along with 76% from the free throw stripe. On the defensive end, the Mount Maunganui native averaged nearly two steals a night along with pulling down 4.3 boards per game.

"She's unselfish, plays the right way, and does all the little things that drive winning. With her length and versatility, Olivia gives us the ability to defend multiple positions, disrupt on the perimeter, and push in transition," continued Vulin. 

As a freshman for Collin on January 11, 2025, Lassey scored a career-high 22 points on eight-for-13 shooting in a 89-73 win over Temple College. This past season against Paris Junior, she swatted three shots while swiping two balls in a defensive masterclass en route to a 65-47 victory. 

On the defensive end of the floor, she accumulated four or more swipes on three occasions, including a season-high of five in a 63-58 win over Hill College. 

"Her international experience, defensive mindset, and do it all approach fit perfectly with the standards we've set at Manhattan. She's going to make everyone around her better," concluded Vulin. 

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