Dani Haskell returned to Franklinville on Monday night for a special ceremony.
Former Panthers head coach and now Athletic Director Allan Dunlap helped organize a jersey retirement for Haskell, now playing collegiately at St. Bonaventure.
Below is the jersey retirement speech by Dunlap
During her high school career at Franklinville High School, Dani amassed 3,227 points, making her the all-time leading scorer in Western New York—male or female—and the second-highest scorer in New York State high school history for female athletes. Her exceptional performance included 467 three-pointers, showcasing her talent and dedication to the game.
Dani led Franklinville to a New York State Class D Championship in 2019, cementing her legacy as one of the most accomplished athletes in Western New York history. Her dominance was recognized when she was named New York State Class D Player of the Year in both 2018 and 2019, an honor that reflected her impact on the court and her ability to elevate her team to greatness. She was also named WNY player of the year twice, countless league all-stars, MVP honors, and was a finalist to be named Miss NYS basketball in 2020.
She continued her success at Canisius College, where she played in 64 games, making 60 starts, while averaging 12.5 points, 3.6 rebounds, and 2.5 assists per game over three seasons. She was a two-time All-MAAC Third Team selection and a two-time MAAC All-Academic Team honoree. She then transferred to St. Bonaventure University, where she led the team in scoring during the 2023-24 season, averaging 12.3 points per game and making a team-best 54 three-pointers, with 19 double-digit scoring performances, including four games with 20 or more points.
Now in her senior season (2024-25) at St. Bonaventure, Dani has continued to excel, currently averaging 13.9 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.5 assists per game. Her consistent performance has been instrumental in leading the team and exemplifies her dedication and skill on the court.
Beyond her statistics, Dani’s leadership, dedication, and sportsmanship have left an indelible mark on our community. Her journey from Franklinville to collegiate basketball exemplifies the spirit of perseverance and excellence, inspiring the next generation of athletes.
I can still remember sitting in the Hall of Fame Room at St. Bonaventure with our travel basketball team when Dani was just an elementary school player. We listened as Coach Jim Crowley spoke to our kids about the importance of being a great teammate—a lesson that Dani clearly took to heart throughout her career. It’s funny how life comes full circle, as Dani will now finish her collegiate career playing for Coach Crowley at St. Bonaventure. This moment not only speaks to her growth and dedication to the game but also highlights the impact she has made on so many in the basketball community.
This honor would not be possible without the unwavering support and dedication of her family—her dad, Jeff, mom, Jill, sister, Ally, and brother, Josh. Their encouragement, sacrifice, and belief in Dani have helped shape her into the outstanding athlete and person she is today. Their love for the game and for Dani’s journey has been evident every step of the way. We thank them for sharing her talents with all of us.
Retiring Dani Haskell’s jersey is a fitting tribute to her legacy, celebrating not only her individual accomplishments but also the values of hard work, determination, and sportsmanship that she represents.
I believe that celebrating Dani’s contributions in this way will have a lasting positive impact on our community.
Dunlap said that the gym was packed for the occasion and there was a nice contingent from St. Bonaventure in attendance. "I was a little worried with our boys team being on the road, but we had a full house last night," Dunlap said.
The Panthers defeated Forestville 49-45.
Photo Gallery Credit Rich Rumfola/WNYAthletics
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