The Youngstown State women's basketball team opens its season Wednesday hosting Xavier.

The Penguins are lead by acting head coach John Nicolais who's replaced John Barnes who continues to be on a leave of absence to tend to family.

"I'm excited and I've tried to convey that to the team and let them know were all in this together," said Nicolais, who's been with the program for 11 years.

The Penguins return nine players from last year's team and look forward to tipping off the season.

"I feel like the staff has been really good, on the same page and doing a great job. Everybody is taking on extra responsibilities since we are down one coach," said Nicolais.

Asked whether they've been in contact with Barnes, both players and coaches say "it's been very limited as we want to respect him taking care of his family."

Tip off Wednesday is 6:30 pm from Beeghly Center.