As March Madness unfolds, Toby Fournier, a star freshman for the Duke Blue Devils, stands out as one of the most exciting players to watch. With an average of 14 points and a shooting efficiency of 55% over the season, the Toronto native has already made a name for herself on the college basketball scene. Recently named the ACC Rookie of the Year, Fournier's success at Duke comes as no surprise to those who have followed her journey closely.
Fournier’s transformation from a highly recruited prospect out of Crestwood Preparatory College to a key player on a national stage has been remarkable. Under head coach Kara Lawson, Fournier has adapted quickly to the pressures of college basketball, showcasing her ability to thrive in high-stakes situations. Her head coach has repeatedly expressed her belief in Fournier's talent. "Toby plays the game at a really high level athletically," Lawson stated. "She's able to score, she's able to rebound, and she's able to block shots." With consistent performances, Fournier has established herself as a crucial asset for the Blue Devils as they gear up for the NCAA tournament.
On March 22, 2025, the second-seeded Blue Devils will face off against No. 15 Lehigh in the tournament's first round. This matchup has generated a buzz, especially following Duke's impressive run in the ACC Tournament where they claimed their first title since 2013. Duke’s path to the championship included victories over previously ranked teams like Louisville, Notre Dame, and N.C. State. Fournier played a vital role during these matchups, including her standout performance where she scored her career-high of 28 points against Florida State on the final regular-season game.
Though she has excelled individually, Fournier is not just defined by her statistics; her competitive spirit shines through both on and off the court. After learning of her Rookie of the Year honor, she excitedly FaceTimed her family, cherishing the moment with laughter and joy. "It was a whole thing," she recalled, emphasizing her love for competition and performance under pressure. "I really like it. I love that people watch it. I love being on a bright stage. I'm excited to continue..."
Fournier’s impressive performance this season not only highlights her ability but also ignites hopes for her future. Many, including her high school coach Marlo Davis, see her potential extending far beyond the college ranks. "If she maintains her pace, her spot on the Los Angeles 2028 Olympic squad may be undeniable," Davis remarked, reflecting on the excitement surrounding Fournier's future.
As Fournier leads her team into the NCAA tournament, other Canadian players have also caught attention. Lehigh's coach, Addie Micir, after building confidence within her team, stated, “We’re going to win. And that’s the way this team has approached every single game.” This facing-off creates an intriguing narrative as leading players from Canada find themselves competing at this level.
Furthermore, Fournier's journey has been positively influenced by her supportive family, notably her father Craig and mother Anais Granofsky. Her parents have remained engaged in her basketball journey, offering both encouragement and a sense of humor along the way. With her mother's anxiousness about injuries and her father’s passion for the game, Fournier feels a strong familial bond, lending her further motivation to excel.
Beyond Fournier’s achievements, there’s a sense of optimism for Canada's women's national team as more players gain visibility in March Madness. The presence of fellow Canadian players like Shayeann Day-Wilson and Syla Swords is indicative of a growing talent pool. Together, they could shape the narrative of women’s basketball in their home country.
As the tournament progresses, Fournier’s skills and competitive nature will undoubtedly be on full display. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see how far the Blue Devils can go, and many believe that Fournier's impact could lead them deep into the tournament. Whether she leads them to victory or not, her journey will inspire countless young athletes, proving that hard work and dedication can lead to success at the highest levels of the sport.
The Duke community and the Canadian basketball family are rallying behind her as the tournament looms closer, all eyes pointed towards her first-round game against Lehigh. Anticipation is building with each passing day. "Man, that would be amazing to see," Coach Davis said, reflecting on the possibilities for her future. With everything on the line and stakes higher than they’ve ever been, Toby Fournier is ready for the challenge that awaits her.
