LOUDONVILLE, NY – Siena Women's Basketball first-year head coach Terry Primm bolstered the roster on Thursday by officially announcing his eighth new addition to the Saints with the welcoming of six-foot sophomore Kelya Penda. 
 
Penda, who began as a key rotational player on the NJCAA Region 2 conference and regular champions Connors State last season, worked her way into making nine starts during the second half of the campaign. 
 
From February 3 through March 16, Penda played key minutes on a Cowgirls' team that won 13 consecutive games, finishing 29-5 overall, before falling in the 2024 NJCAA Division I Women's Basketball Championship First Round. 
 
"Kelya's passion to be great is her most compelling quality, which resonates with me because of the goals we have as a program," coach Primm said.
 
"Her potential, size, versatility, strong character, commitment to excellence, and love for Siena will allow her to have an immediate impact. I look forward to working with her as she strives to fully develop in every way possible."
 
Penda becomes the second Frenchwoman on the roster, joining freshman Myriam Traore.  In Penda's hometown of Viry-Châtillon, she graduated from Lycée Ernest Couteaux where Penda was an All-Region, All-District and All-Starting Five team member.  Additionally, Penda earned an advertisement deal with the Jordan Brand and was named the 3x3 Open Ile de France winner and MVP.